Twinsburg City Zoning Code
TITLE FOUR
Development Design Standards
1112.01 WASTE MATERIAL STORAGE AND DISPOSAL.
(a) In the R-6 Zone and nonresidential zones, outside storage areas for garbage, rubbish, waste material, empty containers, or waste processing equipment must be approved by the Planning Commission prior to their construction and use.
(b) Waste containers and outside storage areas for such containers shall be screened from public view. The type and method of such screening is subject to approval by the Planning Commission.
(c) No liquid waste shall be discharged into an open body of water or a sewer. Liquid waste, such as oils, grease, acids, alkalines, and other chemicals shall not be released into the sanitary sewer without proper pretreatment and does not exceed the amounts permitted by other Federal, State, County, or City codes.
(d) Disposal of Construction and Demolition Debris.
(1) Clean hard fill, as defined by the EPA, may be used in properly authorized fill operations where such fill provides a proper gradation.
(2) Asphalt and concrete shall not be buried but may be recycled and converted into aggregate for the base of pavement.
(3) Trees and brush shall not be buried on site. Wood chips, due to their biodegradable nature, may be properly disbursed on a site.
(e) No waste containing material harmful to the sewerage system or the sewage treatment process shall be discharged into the municipal sewerage system.
(f) Damage resulting from accidental spills or emissions of solid, liquid, or gaseous waste shall be the responsibility of the offender.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1112.02 INDUSTRIAL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
(a) Applicability.
(2) Any industrial use established prior to the effective date of this Code shall not be altered, added to, or otherwise modified in a manner that conflicts with, or that increases the degree of conflict with, the performance standards set forth in this Section.
(3) The City may require statements of compliance from the owner of the land on which an industrial use operates. The City may select and arrange for an independent survey by a professional engineer qualified in an applicable field to review such a use's compliance with this Section, with the costs of such survey being paid by the owner.
(b) Enclosure Required.
(1) All uses categorized as "industrial uses" within Table 1108.02-B: Non-Residential Zones Use Permissions shall be performed wholly within an enclosed building or buildings.
(2) All raw materials, finished products, and mobile or other equipment shall be stored within enclosed buildings.
(c) Fire and Explosive Hazards. The storage, handling, and use of flammable or explosive materials shall be permitted only in structures having noncombustible exterior walls. All operations in connection therewith shall be provided with adequate safety and protective devices against hazards of fire and explosion including firefighting equipment, fire suppression equipment, and safety devices standard to the operation involved, pursuant to the Ohio Building Code and the Ohio Fire Code.
(d) Dust and Smoke. The emission of smoke, soot, fly ash, fumes, dust, and other types of air pollution borne by the wind shall be controlled so that the rate of emission and the quantity deposited at any adjacent lot shall not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort, or welfare, or adversely affect property values.
(e) Odorous Matter. The emission of odorous matter in such quantities as to produce a public nuisance or hazard beyond the lot occupied by the use shall not be permitted.
(f) Toxic or Noxious Matter. The emission of toxic, noxious, or corrosive fumes or gases which would be demonstrably injurious to property, vegetation, animals, or human health at or beyond the boundaries of the lot occupied by the use shall not be permitted.
(g) Noise. No person shall operate or maintain any noise-making device, noise-amplifying device, or noise-producing device in any public or private place at or louder than 62 dBA between the hours of 9:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. on weekends. No person shall operate such devices in any public or private place at or louder than 67 dBA at all other times.
(h) Vibration. Vibrations shall not be permitted beyond the lot line occupied by the use which would be perceptible without the aid of instruments.
(i) Radioactive or Electrical Disturbances. Radioactive or electrical disturbances shall not be created which would adversely affect any form of life or equipment at or beyond the boundaries of the lot occupied by the use.
(j) Incineration Facilities. Incineration facilities emitting neither smoke nor odor shall be provided or located within a principal building.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1112.03 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
(a) Intent. The provisions of this Section are intended to:
(1) Protect environmental resources essential to the public health, prosperity, and character of Twinsburg, including its water resources; and
(2) Mitigate potential adverse impacts to local flora and fauna; and
(3) Increase the resiliency of Twinsburg in the face of potential crises, such as energy supply disruptions, heavy storms, and sustained droughts.
(b) Environmental Requirements. No proposed development shall receive an approval and/or permit required by this Code except where such proposed development satisfies the following standards, as applicable:
(1) Protection of wetlands and streams. A wetlands survey is required for proposed development sites subject to site plan approval by the Planning Commission (in accordance with Section 1123.01 - Site Plan Review). Site plans and associated submittal information must include details on anticipated impacts to Waters of the United States and Waters of the State of Ohio. Site development and construction activities shall not cause the filling, dredging, draining, deepening, clearing, straightening, or other alteration to Waters of the United States or Waters of the State of Ohio unless such alteration has been approved and permitted by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. Documentation of such approval or permit shall be provided upon submittal of a site plan application for Planning Commission consideration.
(2) Erosion control. For developments that cause land disturbance to one acre of land or greater, erosion and sediment control measures shall be implemented until soil stabilization has been achieved through revegetation or other stabilization measures. For the purposes of this provision, erosion and sediment control measures shall be interpreted to mean those practices recommended or required by the Summit County Soil and Water Conservation District and by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Division of Surface Water, subject to permits and approvals that such agencies may require.
(3) Permeable materials. Impervious area shall not exceed applicable open space requirements of Section 1113.02 - Comprehensive Dimensional Standards for a proposed development at full build-out. For this provision, impervious area shall be viewed as a plan view over a horizontal plane. For this provision, impervious area is any area, when viewed from a plan view over a horizontal plane, covered by a surface that significantly impedes the infiltration of rain water into the substrate below the surface, including asphalt or concrete driveways, walkways, patios, and other outdoor hardscaped areas, rooftops, swimming pools, and the like. Impervious area shall not include areas that permit the passage of rainwater through the surface and into the substrate below the surface, including vegetated areas, decking, bare soil, gravel paving or permeable paving technologies, ponds, green roofs, and stormwater retention basins.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1112.04 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT.
(a) Disturbance Identified. For the purposes of this Section, disturbance includes, but is not limited to, grading, clearing, or excavating the surface of the earth.
(b) Applicability. The provisions of this Section apply to the following types of activities:
(1) Disturbance of ten (10) or more contiguous or discontinuous acres of ground surface associated with any land development project. All phases of a development, even if they occur at different time periods, shall be included in determining the application of these regulations;
(2) Disturbance of five (5) acres or more of ground surface that has been determined to be within the flood plain of Tinker's Creek;
(3) Disturbance of one (1) acre or more of land determined to be severely sloping as identified on the City's map of Steep Slope Topography;
(4) Disturbance of two (2) acres or more of land determined to be jurisdictional wetlands, as determined by the Army Corps of Engineers, or where disturbance of one-third (1/3) acre or more of wetlands is proposed with mitigation outside the corporate limits of the City of Twinsburg; and/or
(5) Development which includes the filling, piping, relocation, or re-contouring of more than 500 linear feet of any perennial or intermittent stream located in or adjacent to previously undeveloped land.
(c) Environmental Assessment Required.
(1) For all applicable types of work, an environmental impact assessment conforming with the minimum requirements of this Section shall be required and shall be provided as part of a submittal for a site plan review (per Section 1123.01 - Site Plan Review).
(2) Any required environmental impact assessment shall be prepared by qualified professional environmental scientists or firms with qualified personnel who have experience in preparing environmental impact studies.
(d) Required Contents of Environmental Impact Assessments. Environmental impact assessments shall include an identification and/or assessment of the below-listed topics, narratively and graphically described. If no impact is anticipated or if the applicant has determined that the condition or resource is not present at the project site, the assessment shall so indicate, along with the basis for such determination:
(1) Cultural resources. The presence of prehistoric archaeology, historic archaeology, and historic architecture;
(2) Ecological resources. The presence of aquatic streams, perennial streams, intermittent streams, aquatic vertebrates and invertebrates, vegetation, amphibians, potential endangered/threatened species, terrestrial flora, terrestrial fauna, and wetlands (by type);
(3) Physiography. The slope, drainage patterns, and groundcover of the subject site;
(4) Soils characteristics. The depth, permeability, erosion proneness, and engineering properties of the soils on the subject site;
(5) Flood hazards. The presence of flood hazards;
(6) Land use. The proposed land use on the subject site and the existing uses of the subject site and adjacent sites;
(7) Zoning. The zoning classifications of the subject site and the adjacent sites;
(8) Visual character. The visual characteristics of the subject site;
(9) Proposed development activity. A summary of the proposed development activity, the proposed end use(s), and the anticipated impacts of the proposed development, traffic and noise associated within the development, and end uses on the previously listed topics;
(10) Mitigation. A summary of the mitigation measures proposed to reduce or eliminate detrimental impacts on the above-listed topics; and
(11) Social resource impacts. The property tax and income tax revenues associated with and anticipated for the proposed development activities and end use(s).
(e) Review Process. Environmental impact assessments will be subject to the following:
(1) Staff will review the assessment for completeness and thoroughness in consultation with appropriate staff, boards, and commissions of the City. Staff may also consult with subject matter experts. Staff will forward the complete environmental impact assessment and all collected comments to the Planning Commission; then
(2) The Planning Commission will evaluate the assessment together with all collected comments and will identify and review mitigation measures with the applicant. The Planning Commission may also consult with subject matter experts.
(f) Relationship to Development Open Space Requirements. Where significant features have been identified through compliance with this Section 1112.04, or where mitigation measures have been recommended, the preservation of such features is encouraged and may be accomplished by incorporating such features into required development open space portions of the development, where such development open space is required per the provisions of Section 1113.02 - Comprehensive Dimensional Standards
(g) Variances Authorized. The Planning Commission is hereby authorized to grant variances of up to fifty percent (50%) from applicable setback requirements in any zone or district where they find that such variance is the smallest deviation from an applicable setback standard necessary to accommodate:
(1) The preservation of a significant feature identified through compliance with this Section 1112.04; or
(2) To accommodate adequate mitigation measures of the impacts to a significant feature identified through compliance with this Section 1112.04.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1112.05 OUTDOOR LIGHTING.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to regulate outdoor lighting, promote safety and security, and reduce or prevent light pollution and negative impacts of lighting on surrounding properties. Such effects to be reduced or prevented include but are not limited to glare, light trespass, and conservation of energy.
(b) Applicability.
(1) The regulations of this Section shall apply to all lighting that illuminates the exterior of a building, structure, open space, parking area, loading area, and/or other exterior features of a lot.
(2) Illumination of signage must comply with the requirements of Section 1116.05 - Signage Illumination.
(1) R-6;
(2) R-7; and
(3) All nonresidential zones.
(d) Exemptions. The following types of outdoor lighting shall not be subject to the provisions of this Section:
(1) Lighting required by State or Federal regulations;
(2) Illuminated poles for government-installed flags; and
(3) Seasonal holiday lighting that is in place for less than sixty (60) days in any calendar year.
(e) Prohibited Outdoor Lighting. The following types or features of outdoor lighting are prohibited:
(1) Non-cutoff lighting affixed to a wall;
(2) Flashing lights within or casting light onto outdoor display areas or parking lots;
(3) Lighting that exceeds applicable illumination standards in Table 1112.05-A: Outdoor Illumination Levels and Table 1112.05-B: Specified Maximum Outdoor Area Illumination Levels; and
(4) Lighting that is designed or located in such a way that causes light to shine or glare directly onto or into a dwelling on an abutting or adjacent lot.
(f) Nonconforming Outdoor Lighting. The use of legally established, nonconforming lighting may continue until the luminaire is replaced, at which point replacement lighting must comply with this Section.
(g) Lighting Plan Requirements. Lighting plans shall include the following information, as applicable, in a format approved by the City of Twinsburg:
(1) A site plan showing the location and height of proposed outdoor lighting fixtures and the locations of associated controllers and transformers;
(2) A site plan delineating separate outdoor display areas, customer and employee parking areas, outdoor storage areas, and building entrances and
(3) A photometric plan showing the illumination levels for each area designated in the site plan, in accordance with Table 1112.05-A: Outdoor Illumination Levels.
(h) Maximum Allowed Illumination. Outdoor illumination shall be subject to the following:
(1) The maximum illumination permitted in each zone shall be as provided in Table 1112.05-A: Outdoor Illumination Levels.
(2) Where there are two or more abutting lots with different zones and different maximum illumination requirements, the more restrictive standards shall apply to both lots along the shared property line.
(3) When a use is adjacent to any one-unit dwelling, the most restrictive standards in Table 1112.05-A: Outdoor Illumination Levels shall apply to such use.
Zone or District | Maximum Illumination Across Property (in Footcandles) | Maximum Illumination at Property Lines (in Footcandles) |
Residential Zones | 2.0 | 0.0 |
Nonresidential Zone or District | At building entryways: 5.0 Average across parking lots: 2.0 | 0.0 |
(i) Height of Lighting.
(1) Non-cutoff outdoor lighting (such as the example shown in Figure 1112.05-A: Example Cutoff and Non-Cutoff Light Fixtures) shall be designed, located, and mounted at heights no greater than twelve (12) feet above grade level.
(2) Cutoff outdoor lighting (such as the example shown in Figure 1112.05-A: Example Cutoff and Non-Cutoff Light Fixtures) shall be designed, located, and mounted at heights no greater than twenty-four (24) feet above grade level.
 |
(j) Additional Design Standards. The following design standards apply to certain outdoor lighting, as described below:
(1) The placement of light poles within raised curb planter areas or within landscaped islands is encouraged. Any conflicts with trees in parking lots that can obscure lighting shall be avoided through alternative lighting locations.
(2) No outdoor lighting shall be of such an intensity or color distortion as to cause glare or to impair the vision of drivers or pedestrians.
(3) Uniform lighting shall be provided throughout a given parking area to prevent varying intensities of lighting. Such uniform lighting shall be illustrated in any required lighting plan.
(4) All outdoor lighting fixtures within a development shall be the same, similar, or complementary in design and appearance.
(5) Lighting shall be dimmed between the hours of 11:30pm and 6:30am, as shown in Table 1112.05-B: Specified Maximum Outdoor Area Illumination Levels, to limit light pollution and preserve the opportunity for appreciation of the night sky. Facilities that serve customers, students, clients, and other visitors on-site twenty-four (24) hours per day may be granted an exemption by the Zoning Administrator upon compliance with all other requirements of this Section.
Specified Outdoor Area | Maximum Illumination Across Area (in Footcandles) | Maximum Illumination at Property Lines or at Curb (in Footcandles) | Uniformity Ratio - Maximum to Minimum |
Outdoor Display Area | 15.0 | Alongside and rear property lines: 0.1 Along curbs: 1.0 | 10:1 |
Parking and/or Storage Areas | An average of 2.0 across the area | Alongside and rear property lines: 0.1 Along curbs: 1.0 | 5:1 |
Rear Area (adjacent to residential zones) | An average of 2.0 across the area | 0.0 | 5:1 |
Building Entrances | 5.0 at building entryways | N/A | N/A |
Overnight Lighting | At building entryways: 5.0 Average across the site: 2.0 | 0.0 | 4:1 |
(6) In addition to other applicable standards of this Section, lighting in parking areas must meet the minimum requirements provided in Table 1112.05-C: Required Minimum Parking Area Illumination Levels. Parking and circulation areas, pedestrian areas and related outdoor use areas in non-residential and mixed-use zones shall be illuminated to provide safety and security for the users of these areas, to provide security for property, and to maintain privacy for adjacent residential properties.
Activity Type | Minimum Required Footcandles (1) |
Pedestrian Circulation Areas | 0.6 |
Vehicular Use Area Only | 1.0 |
Other Property Security | 0.2 |
Table Notes: (1) Minimum required footcandles must be met as an average across the entire given activity area.` | |
(7) Except for street lighting and lighting of public outdoor recreation areas, exterior lighting in parking areas must be extinguished when not in use. Exterior lighting in pedestrian areas may be reduced to the property security level provided in Table 1112.05-C: Required Minimum Parking Area Illumination Levels during hours when these areas are not in use.
(8) Exterior lighting along a separately owned property that is within a residential zone must be designed and maintained to provide a maximum of 0.0 footcandles of illumination along such adjoining lot lines.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1113.01 GENERAL STANDARDS.
(a) General Standards. No building shall be erected, converted, enlarged, reconstructed, or structurally altered except in conformity with the applicable standards stated in this Code. (Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1113.02 COMPREHENSIVE DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS.
(a) Applicability. Table 1113.02-A: Residential Zones Dimensional Standards, Table 1113.02-B: Commercial and Public Zones Dimensional Standards, and Table 1113.02-C: Industrial Zones Dimensional Standards provide a comprehensive reference of minimum and maximum dimensional standards, as applicable, for lot sizes, lot and development open space, lot frontage, building setbacks, and buildings heights as required by this Code.
(b) Principal and Accessory Structures. The standards of Table 1113.02-A: Residential Zones Dimensional Standards, Table 1113.02-B: Commercial and Public Zones Dimensional Standards, and Table 1113.02-C: Industrial Zones Dimensional Standards apply to all principal and accessory structures unless otherwise specified or allowed in this Code.
Residential Zones | ||||||||
Standards | R-2 | R-3 | R-4 | R-5 | R-6 | R-7 (Multi-Unit) (1) | R-7 (One-Unit) (2) | PUD (3) |
LOT STANDARDS | ||||||||
Lot Area (min.) | 1 acre | 19,000 square feet | 13,600 square feet | See table note (4) | 8,712 square feet per unit | 3,630 square feet per unit | 8,712 square feet per cluster unit | 15,500 square feet (5) |
Lot Open Space (min.) | 10% | 20% | 35% | 35% | N/A | 35% | 35% | 20% |
Development Open Space Set-Aside (min.) | 10% (6) | 20% (6) | 35% (6) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 20% of gross development area acreage |
Lot Frontage (min.) | 110 feet | 100 feet | 75 feet | See table note (4) | 200 feet | N/A | N/A | 75 feet |
SETBACKS AND BUILDINGS | ||||||||
Setback from Front Lot Lines (min.) | 100 feet | 60 feet | 50 feet | See table note (7) | 50 feet | From a local road: 35 feet From a non-local road: 50 feet | 35 feet | 50 feet |
Setback from Rear Lot Lines (min.) | 75 feet | 50 feet | 50 feet | See table note (8) | 50 feet | 50 feet | 50 feet | 50 feet |
Setback from Side Lot Lines (min.) | 20 feet | 15 feet | 10 feet | See table note (9) | 50 feet | 35 feet | 35 feet | 15 feet |
Building Height (max.) | 35 feet | 35 feet | 35 feet | 35 feet | 45 feet | 45 feet | 35 feet | 35 feet |
Principal Dwelling Floor Area (min.) (10) | 1,500 square feet | 1,500 square feet | 1,500 square feet | 1,400 square feet | N/A | N/A | 1,100 square feet | 1,500 square feet |
Table Notes: (1) The standards of this column apply to properties with multi-unit uses within the R-7 zone. (2) The standards of this column apply to properties with one-unit uses within the R-7 zone. (3) The dimensional standards applicable to individual PUD developments that are subject to a duly executed development agreement with the City of Twinsburg may be modified where such development agreement applies specific dimensional standards. Where a duly executed development agreement for a PUD is silent on a given dimensional standard, the applicable standard(s) of this table shall govern. (4) This requirement is established through Section 1123.01- Site Plan Review. All developments in the R-5 Zone shall not exceed a maximum density of 3.5 units/acre. (5) PUDs require a minimum development area of 200 acres. (6) The requirement for development open space set-aside does not apply to minor subdivisions in the R-2, R-3, and R-4 zones. (7) Within the R-5 Zone, dwellings shall be setback a minimum of 30 feet from the nearest edge of the street or sidewalk pavement. (8) Within the R-5 Zone, dwellings shall be setback a minimum of 50 feet from a rear lot line that abuts a lot improved with a one-unit dwelling. (9) Within the R-5 Zone, dwellings shall provide a minimum separation of 10 feet from separate dwellings, and a minimum separation of 25 feet from common open spaces. (10) Replacement of nonconforming dwellings shall be subject to the provisions of Title 5 - Nonconformities. |
Commercial and Public Zones | ||||||
Standards | PF | C-1 | C-2 | C-3 | C-4 | DWTN |
LOT STANDARDS | ||||||
Lot Area (min.) | See table note (1) | 32,500 square feet | 32,500 square feet | 32,500 square feet | 32,500 square feet | N/A |
Lot Open Space (min.) | N/A | 20% | 20% | 20% | 20% | N/A |
Development Open Space Set-Aside (min.) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Lot Frontage (min.) | N/A | 150 feet | 150 feet | 150 feet | 150 feet | N/A |
SETBACKS AND BUILDINGS | ||||||
Setback from Front Lot Lines (min.) | 50 feet | 50 feet | 70 feet | 50 feet | 50 feet | 0 feet (2) |
Setback from Front Lot Lines (max.) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 35 feet |
Setback from Rear Lot Lines (min.) | 35 feet | Parking lots: 10 feet Non-parking lots: 30 feet | Parking lots: 10 feet Non-parking lots: 30 feet | Parking lots: 10 feet Non-parking lots: 30 feet | Parking lots: 10 feet Non-parking lots: 30 feet | 0 feet |
Setback from Side Lot Lines (min.) | 35 feet | Parking lots: 10 feet Non-parking lots: 50 feet (3) | Parking lots: 10 feet Non-parking lots: 50 feet (3) | Parking lots: 10 feet Non-parking lots: 50 feet (3) | Parking lots: 10 feet Non-parking lots: 50 feet (3) | 0 feet |
Building Height (max.) | 50 feet | 35 feet | 35 feet | 35 feet | 35 feet | 55 feet (2) |
Table Notes: (1) The minimum required lot area for a lot in the PF zone shall be through a site plan review in accordance with Section 1123.01 - Site Plan Review. (2) Any portions of a building that are higher than 25 feet above grade level must be set back a minimum of 35 feet from front property lines. (3) The minimum required setback from a side lot line for construction other than parking lots shall be reduced to 20 feet where the lot line does not abut a residential zone. | ||||||
Industrial Zones | |||
Standards | I-1 | I-2 | I-3 |
LOT STANDARDS | |||
Lot Area (min.) | 1 acre | 1.5 acres | 2 acres |
Lot Building Coverage (max.) | 40% | 40% | 40% |
Development Open Space Set-Aside (min.) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Lot Frontage (min.) | 100 feet | 150 feet | 200 feet |
SETBACKS AND BUILDINGS | |||
Parking Lot Setback from Front Lot Lines (min.) | 50 feet | 50 feet (1) | 50 feet (1) |
Non-Parking Lot Setback from Front Lot Lines (min.) | 50 feet | 100 feet (2) | 100 feet (2) |
Parking Lot Setback from Side Lot Lines (min.) | Abutting residential zone: 25 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 5 feet | Abutting residential zone: 25 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 10 feet | Abutting residential zone: 25 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 10 feet |
Non-Parking Lot Setback from Side Lot Lines (min.) | Abutting residential zone: 100 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 15 feet | Abutting residential zone: 100 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 25 feet | Abutting residential zone: 100 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 50 feet |
Parking Lot Setback from Rear Lot Lines (min.) | Abutting residential zone: 25 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 5 feet | Abutting residential zone: 25 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 10 feet | Abutting residential zone: 25 feet Abutting nonresidential zone: 10 feet |
Non-Parking Lot Setback from Rear Lot Lines (min.) | Abutting residential zone: 50 feet Abutting zone: 25 feet | Abutting residential zone: 100 feet Abutting zone: 50 feet | Abutting residential zone: 100 feet Abutting zone: 50 feet |
Building Height (max.) | 35 feet | 35 feet (3) | 35 feet (3) |
Table Notes: (1) In coordination with any applicable requirements of Chapter 1114 - Landscaping and Buffering and Chapter 1115 - Parking, Loading, and Circulation, the required setback area from a front lot line for a parking lot that is visible from the abutting right-of-way must be improved with landscape planting and/or low masonry walls or fences to screen the view of the parking lot. (2) The non-parking-lot setback required from a front lot line for the I-2 and I-3 zones may be reduced to 50 feet if the front lot line abuts a collector street or a local street that does not abut a residential zone. Such classifications shall be determined in accordance with Section 1118.06 - Classification of Streets and Private Driveways. (3) Maximum allowed height may be increased to 50 feet if, for every foot in height above 35 feet, the following is provided: additional 2-foot setback from front lot lines, 2-foot setback from rear lot lines, and 1-foot setback from side lot lines above applicable minimum requirements. |
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1113.03 RESIDENTIAL INFILL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS.
(a) Applicability. This Section applies to residential developments platted prior to enactment of this Code which may have vacant platted lots.
(b) Intent. The intent of this Section is to provide flexibility for compatible construction of infill development within established neighborhoods.
(c) Least Restrictive Standards Apply. Infill development on applicable lots shall be subject to the least restrictive and most permissive standards among:
(1) The applicable zoning standards in effect at the time of final plat approval, based on available documentation of prior zoning regulations, recorded plats, approved final site plans, or other documentation; or
(2) The applicable standards of this Code.
(d) Modification of Certain Standards. The provisions of this Section allow for the modification of the following and related standards:
(1) Minimum lot dimension and area requirements;
(2) Maximum and minimum building size requirements, including gross floor area and height;
(3) Minimum setback requirements from front, rear, and side lot lines;
(4) Restrictions on accessory uses, including storage sheds and pools;
(5) Off-street parking requirements;
(6) Restrictions on dwelling unit types and residential use permissions;
(7) Minimum ground floor area requirements; and
(8) Dedication or reservation of easements, rights-of-way, or parkland.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1113.04 LOT STANDARDS.
(a) Visibility Required. Every part of a required yard shall be open to the sky unobstructed except for approved accessory buildings and projections of skylights, sills, belt courses, cornices, and ornamental features projecting from an approved building a distance not to exceed 36 inches into a setback required per Section. These requirements shall not be construed to prohibit the construction of approved fences.
(b) Residential Front Lot Line Setbacks Modified. For a proposed dwelling within a residential zone:
(1) The minimum required setback from a front lot line shall be modified from the applicable requirements of Table 1113.02-A: Residential Zones Dimensional Standards to be the average setback from a front lot line calculated between the closest lot on both sides of the subject lot that are improved with a dwelling, where such improved lots are within 300 feet of the subject lot and are within the same block and on the same side of the street as the subject lot.
(2) For a corner lot, if the immediately adjoining lot is improved with a dwelling, the minimum required setback from a front lot line shall be modified from the applicable requirements of Table 1113.02-A: Residential Zones Dimensional Standards to be not less than the established front lot line setback of the immediately adjoining lot.
(c) Building Façade Design Restrictions. The design of the building façade of any dwelling shall not be repeated within 160 feet of another dwelling on the same street.
(d) Sewage and Water Facilities. Where central sanitary sewage facilities and water facilities are not available, the minimum required lot size shall be modified from the applicable requirements of Table 1113.02-A: Residential Zones Dimensional Standards to be one (1) acre for one-unit dwellings, and two (2) acres for two-unit dwellings, where such uses are permitted, unless a larger area is required by the responsible Health Authority.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1113.05 COMMERCIAL ZONE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STANDARDS.
(a) Intent. The intent of the standards in this Section is:
(1) To encourage creative and innovative design that is harmonious throughout a given area;
(2) To protect the value of buildings and property;
(3) To preserve and promote a unique small town community image;
(4) To encourage visual attractiveness;
(5) To encourage high-quality architecture; and
(6) To prevent deterioration of buildings.
(b) Applicability. Unless otherwise provided, the provisions of this Section apply to new principal buildings, additions to principal buildings, and alterations to principal buildings that are within a commercial zone.
(c) Appearance. Buildings must be designed to be compatible with surrounding architectural styles. Corporate stylized architectural elements (building features that are used for advertising or national image) shall be minimized to the extent that they are not the dominant architectural elements and so that the building remains compatible with the surrounding architecture.
(d) Building Materials. Traditional building materials such as masonry, wood, or glass shall be used on all exterior visible portions of structures. Other materials may be approved if their use is appropriate for the location and architectural style proposed, where approved by the Architectural Review Board.
(e) Building Façade.
(1) Plain, monolithic exterior treatments with long uninterrupted walls and roof plane surfaces are discouraged.
(2) Each building façade shall incorporate design elements such as changes in color or texture, projections, recesses, reveals, arcades, or pergolas providing pedestrian interest, or equivalent elements that subdivide a wall into human-scale proportions.
(3) Building façades shall have highly visible customer entrances that feature canopies, overhands, arcades, distinctive roof forms, arches, display windows, or landscaped features.
(4) Public entrances should face an abutting public right-of-way.
(5) Buildings must have well-defined rooflines with attention to architectural detail. Consideration should be given to the prevailing pattern of roofs in the surrounding area.
(6) Exterior materials and treatments must provide consistent architectural character and detail on all sides of the given building.
(f) Building Scale.
(1) New, remodeled, or altered buildings must be in relative proportion to the original building elements and/or neighboring buildings.
(2) Wherever feasible, buildings shall be designed to provide massing configurations with a variety of different wall planes.
(3) Where applicable, a large building mass must be broken into smaller components, creating functional open spaces and pedestrian-oriented areas between buildings or components that visually appear to be separate buildings.
(g) Color. Structure and building color shall be in harmony with the existing neighboring buildings. Colors must be architecturally and aesthetically pleasing.
(h) Screening.
(1) Site design and development must consider impacts of noise and light on adjacent properties, providing proper screening as needed and as required pursuant to Chapter 1114 - Landscaping and Buffering. Such screening may also incorporate sound barriers and acoustic panels that meet standards applicable to fences and walls.
(2) Vegetative screening in combination with fence materials may be utilized.
(3) Plant materials used in screening must be moderately fast-growing, evergreen (providing opaque screening year-round), and require minimal maintenance. Invasive plant species are prohibited.
(4) Plant materials used in screening must be of a height and density so that it provides the full desired effect within three (3) growing seasons.
(i) DWTN District Exterior Material Requirements.
(1) New buildings and additions to buildings within the DWTN district are subject to the exterior material requirements of Table 1113.05-A: DWTN Exterior Material Requirements. Submissions to the Architectural Review Board must include architectural drawings of all building and/or addition exterior elevations with detailed descriptions of all exterior construction materials, including the percentage of the exterior walls covered by each material.
(2) Strict adherence to the standards of Table 1113.05-A: DWTN Exterior Material Requirements shall not be applied in a manner that prevents architectural creativity. Requests for exceptions to these standards may be considered by the Architectural Review Board based on architectural design and creativity and compatibility with surrounding developed properties. Exceptions may also be considered for building additions or modifications which are designed to be compatible with existing or adjacent structures.
Primary Materials (shall be a minimum of 80% of street-facing elevations, minimum of 50% of side elevations, and minimum of 35% of rear elevations) (1) | Accent Materials (may be a maximum of 20% of any side or rear elevation) (1) | Prohibited Materials (may not be used on an exterior elevation) |
Kiln-fired clay brick/terracotta | Stucco | Plywood |
Stone (natural - including field stone, river rock, cut stone, and dimensioned stone) | Vinyl, steel, aluminum, and fiber cement siding | Cinder block or smooth-faced block |
Cast stone | Split-faced block | EIFS (exterior insulation and finish systems) |
Architectural metals | Wood shingles | |
Architectural/finish-grade wood or timber | ||
Table Notes: (1) Minimum and maximum requirements shall not apply to doorways and windows. | ||
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1114.01 GENERAL PROVISIONS.
(1) Improve the appearance of vehicular use areas and property abutting public rights-of-way;
(2) Require buffering between different land uses;
(3) Protect, preserve, and promote the aesthetic appeal and value of neighborhoods that surround a given site;
(4) Promote public health and safety through the reduction of noise pollution, air pollution, water pollution, visual pollution, air temperature fluctuations, and artificial light glare; and
(5) Promote the preservation and replacement of trees and significant vegetation removed over the course of land development.
(b) Applicability. Except as otherwise explicitly provided within this Chapter, the provisions of Chapter 1114 apply as follows:
(1) No zoning permit or building permit shall be issued hereafter for any site development or the construction or improvement of any building, structure, or vehicular use area except where landscaping for such development construction has been approved as required by the provisions of this Chapter.
(2) No building, structure, or vehicular use area shall be constructed or expanded unless the minimum landscaping required by the provisions of this Chapter is provided on the subject property to the extent of its alteration or expansion. In the case of a substantial alteration or a substantial expansion, the entire site must be brought into compliance with the minimum requirements of this Chapter.
(3) An alteration or expansion is considered substantial, as referenced within this Subsection, when the area or square footage of the expanded or altered land or structure or building, respectively, exceeds twenty-five percent (25%) of the area or square footage of the existing land or structure or building, respectively, exclusive of the alteration or expansion.
(c) Modification of Standards. The standards of this Chapter may be modified by the provisions of Chapter 1111 - Use-Specific Standards and other sections of this Code.
(d) Permitted Tree Species. All trees and vegetation planted shall be common to northeast Ohio or similar climates, in good condition, and properly installed using accepted planting procedures. New trees shall be staked, watered, and mulched.
(e) Standards for New Trees. New trees planted to meet the minimum tree standards and buffering requirements shall be at least two inches in caliper and at least five feet in height.
(f) Prohibited Trees. The following types of trees are prohibited:
(1) Silver maple;
(2) Honey locust (varieties with thorns);
(3) Poplar;
(4) Box elder;
(5) Basswood;
(6) Willow (including but not limited to aspen and cottonwood varieties);
(7) Tree of heaven;
(8) Callery pear;
(9) Sawtooth oak;
(10) Siberian elm; and
(11) White mulberry.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1114.02 LANDSCAPE MATERIALS.
(b) Earth Mounds.
(1) Earth mounds shall be physical barriers which block or screen the view similar to a hedge, fence, or wall.
(2) Earth mounds shall be constructed with proper and adequate plant material to prevent erosion. Where mounds are to be mowed, the maximum permitted slope is 3:1.
(3) A difference in elevation between areas requiring screening does not constitute an existing earth mound and shall not be considered as fulfilling any screening requirement.
(c) Plants. Artificial plants are prohibited. All plant materials shall be living plants that meet the following standards, as applicable:
(1) Quality. Plant materials used in conformance with provisions of this Chapter shall be nursery grown in accordance with good horticultural practices, shall be grown under climatic conditions like those in Northeast Ohio, shall conform to the standards of the American Association of Nurserymen, and shall have passed any inspections required under State regulations. In addition, trees shall be free of disease, insects, and/or damage, and shall be correctly labeled indicating genus, species, and cultivar.
(2) Deciduous trees. Trees that normally shed their leaves in the fall shall be species having an average mature crown spread of greater than fifteen (15) feet in Northeast Ohio. Trees placed within a clear sight triangle must provide a minimum clear wood area (free of low-hanging branches) that meets the standards of Section 1114.05 - Clear Sight Triangle. Trees having an average mature spread of crown less than fifteen (15) feet may be substituted by grouping of the same as to create the equivalent of a fifteen-foot crown spread. A minimum of ten (10) feet overall height or a minimum caliper measured above ground for trees up to four (4) inches caliper of at least two (2) inches immediately after planting shall be required.
(3) Evergreen trees. Evergreen trees shall be a minimum of five (5) feet tall with a minimum caliper of two (2) inches immediately after planting.
(4) Shrubs and hedges. Shrubs and hedges shall be at least two (2) feet tall when placed within vehicular use areas, and at least three (3) feet tall when placed within a required perimeter buffer. All shrubs and hedges must conform to applicable opacity standards and other requirements of this Chapter within four (4) years after planting.
(5) Vines. Vines shall be at least twelve (12) inches high at planting and should generally be used in conjunction with walls or fences.
(6) Grass or ground cover. Grass of the fescue (Gramineae) or bluegrass (Poaceae) family shall be planted in species normally grown as permanent lawns in Northeast Ohio and may be sodded or seeded. In swales or other areas subject to erosion where solid sod, erosion reducing net, or suitable mulch shall be used, nurse-grass seed shall be sown for immediate protection until complete coverage otherwise is achieved. Grass seed shall be clean and free of weeds and noxious pests or diseases. Ground cover shall be planted in such a manner as to present a finished appearance and seventy-five percent (75%) of complete coverage after complete growing seasons, with a maximum of eight (8) inches on center. Where approved by the City, ground cover may also include rocks, pebbles, sand, and similar approved materials, so long as such materials do not cover more than twenty-five percent (25%) of a total yard surface area.
(d) Managed Natural Landscaping. Managed natural landscaping areas are allowed subject to the following:
(1) Height exemptions. Height restrictions on plant life and weeds provided in Chapter 1313 (International Property Maintenance Code) of the City of Twinsburg Code of Ordinances shall not apply to native plants on privately owned, occupied residential property and properties contiguous to such properties, provided that such contiguous properties are owned by the same
individual and native plants are part of a managed natural landscaping area. Height restrictions provided in in Chapter 1313 (International Property Maintenance Code) of the City of Twinsburg Code of Ordinances shall not apply to naturally occurring vegetation located within riparian zones, common open spaces, and public parks.
(2) Setback requirements. Managed natural landscape areas shall be set back a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines, roads, alleys, and/or driveways unless the area is abutted by a fence or similar barrier separating it from adjoining residential properties. If a fence or similar barrier is provided, such managed natural landscape areas may be planted up to the fence or barrier. Managed natural landscape areas shall not be allowed within a right-of-way and shall be set back a minimum of ten (10) feet from any sidewalks. Managed natural landscape areas shall not be permitted to overhang or encroach onto any abutting public or private properties.
(e) Maintenance and Installation. All landscape materials shall be installed in accordance with accepted, good construction and planting procedures. The owner of the property shall be responsible for the continued proper maintenance of all landscaping materials, and shall keep them in a proper, neat, and orderly appearance, free from refuse and debris at all times. All unhealthy or dead plant material shall be replaced within one (1) year, or by the next planting period, whichever comes first.
(f) Pruning and Growth Inhibitors.
(1) Landscape materials used to fulfill code requirements or conditions of approval, as authorized by City Council, Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Architectural Review Board, or other appropriate body, may not be pruned or otherwise treated so as to reduce overall height or level of opacity below required standards.
(2) Landscape materials are intended to grow, spread, and mature over time. Pruning and other inhibiting measures including removal may only be practiced to ensure the public safety, to maintain a neat and attractive appearance, and to preserve the relative health of the material involved.
(3) The use of growth inhibitors is not permitted to be used on any plant material used to fulfill code requirements or conditions of approval.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1114.03 LANDSCAPING AND BUFFERING STANDARDS.
(a) Screening for Business Buildings Required. Whenever a business building is located on a lot that adjoins a residential zone, the Planning Commission may require an additional buffer in the form of a wall, fence, vegetation, or trees of five (5) to eight (8) feet in height with supplementary landscape planting to shield adjacent residential areas from parking lot illumination, headlights, fumes, heat, blowing papers, and dust, and to reduce the visual encroachment of business buildings, signs, and activities.
(b) Minimum Standards for Perimeter Buffers. Where applicable pursuant to Section 1114.01, perimeter buffers are required and must meet the following standards:
(1) Required locations. Perimeter buffer landscaping must be provided along rights-of-way, along property lines where the abutting use is different from the subject property, and along the outermost extents of all vehicular use areas (including but not limited to parking lots and driveways).
(2) Minimum buffer height. In front yards, perimeter buffers must meet the minimum required opacity standards of this Subsection between grade level and four (4) feet above grade level. In yards other than a front yard, perimeter buffers must meet the minimum required opacity standards of this Subsection between grade level and six (6) feet above grade level.
(3) Minimum buffer width. The minimum width of a required perimeter buffer shall be not less than five (5) feet along the entire extent of the required area. However, such width must be expanded where necessary to accommodate landscape materials that meet the opacity standards of this Subsection.
(4) Opacity standards. Landscape materials, fences, and walls used to satisfy perimeter buffer requirements must be installed to provide at least 80% opacity year-round. Landscape materials must be predominantly evergreen species and meet opacity requirements within four (4) years of installation.
(5) Buffer with right-of-way. A required perimeter buffer must be provided by the property owner adjoining the street unless the authority building the street provides landscaping within the right-of-way along the subject property that meets all applicable requirements.
(6) Location conflicts. A required perimeter buffer may be combined with a utility or other easement as long as all of the landscape requirements can be provided in addition to, and separate from, any other easement. Cars or other objects shall not overhang or otherwise intrude upon a required perimeter buffer by more than two and one-half (2.5) feet. For parking spaces that abut a perimeter buffer, wheel stops or curbs that restrict the overhand of vehicles must be provided.
(7) Existing landscape materials. Existing landscape materials must be shown on a site plan submitted for an application for a zoning permit. Any landscape material in satisfactory condition may be included as part of the fulfillment of these requirements when, at the discretion of the City, such material meets the requirements and achieves the intent of this Chapter.
(8) Fence materials in a perimeter buffer. Any fences included within, or proposed to be included within, a perimeter buffer must meet the applicable standards of Section 1109.02 - Fencing.
(c) Interior Landscaping for Vehicular Use Areas. Any open vehicular use area containing more than 6,000 square feet of area, or more than nineteen (19) vehicular parking spaces, must provide interior landscaping in addition to any required perimeter buffer, subject to the following standards:
(1) Design of interior landscaping. Interior landscaping may be peninsula or island types and must include at least one deciduous shade tree per peninsula or island to be counted towards the required landscape area.
(2) Minimum landscape area. For each set of twenty (20) vehicular parking spaces provided within a vehicular use area, a minimum of four (4) planting islands, each with at least one (1) tree and a minimum dimension of four (4) feet by eight (8) feet is required. One (1) vegetated swale may replace one (1) required planting island for each required set of four (4) planting islands.
(3) Tree well soils. Tree wells within vehicular use areas must be excavated to a depth of at least three (3) feet below grade level, with such excavated areas replaced with suitable soil to support healthy tree growth and stability.
(4) Recommend tree species. Table 1114.03-A: Schedule of Recommended Trees for Vehicular Use Areas provides tree species, organized by their standard mature height, that are recommended for use within vehicular use areas.
Tree Genus | Tree Species |
Small Trees (Under 25 Feet Tall) | |
Acer buergerianum | Trident Maple |
Quercus prinoides | Dwarf Chinkapin Oak |
Styphnolobium japonicum | 'Pendulum' weeping Japanese pagoda tree |
Syringa reticulate | 'Ivory Silk' Japanese Tree Lilac |
Tilia cordata | Littleleaf Linden |
Zelkova serrata | Japanese zelkova |
Medium Trees (26 - 50 Feet Tall) | |
Celtis laevigata | Sugar Hackberry |
Koelreuteria paniculata | Goldenrain Tree |
Parrotia persica | Persian Ironwood |
Ulmus parvifolia | Lacebark Elm |
Large Trees (Over 50 Feet Tall) | |
Betula nigra | River Birch - tree form, single stem |
Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis | Honey Locust |
Gymnocladus dioica | Kentucky Coffee tree |
Platanus x acerifolia | London Plane tree |
(5) Tree species diversity. Every fourth tree in a landscape area must be of a different species from other trees included in the vehicular parking area.
(6) Maximum contiguous area. To encourage the required landscape areas to be properly dispersed, no individual landscape area shall be larger than 350 square feet within a vehicular use area that is 30,000 square feet or less in size; no individual landscape area shall be larger than 1,500 square feet within a vehicular use area that is larger than 30,000 square feet. Individual landscape areas larger than these standards may be permitted so long as the additional area is in excess of the required minimums.
(d) Interior Landscaping for Non-vehicular Use Areas. Separate from landscaping required for perimeter buffers, vehicular use areas, or street trees, all new developments, regardless of type, and all alterations or expansions to existing developments shall provide interior landscaping consistent with the following standards:
(1) Interior site landscaping shall consist primarily of new tree plantings or the preservation of existing trees and/or hedges within the development site.
(2) Consideration shall be given to laying out streets, lots, structures, and parking areas to avoid unnecessary destruction of heavily wooded areas or outstanding tree specimens. It is further encouraged that whenever possible, heavily wooded areas be designated as preserves.
(3) Trees that are a minimum caliper of 2 inches must be planted on individual lots per Table 1114.03-B: Schedule of Minimum Number of Trees. New tree plantings shall not be required where existing healthy, non-invasive trees meet or exceed these requirements, provided such trees are evenly distributed throughout the development area and are not confined to single dense cluster or to the perimeter of the development area.
Zone or District | Minimum Required Number of Trees for Each Lot |
Residential Zones | Lots improved with multi-unit or cluster unit dwellings: 10 trees per acre All other lots: 4 trees per lot |
Commercial Zone or District | Each lot: 10 trees per acre |
Industrial Zones: | Each lot: 8 trees per acre |
(4) Proposed plantings that are part of an approved landscape plan must be planted prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or during the next planting season following the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
(e) Screening for Service Structures. Screening must be provided in a manner that prevents direct views of service structures from vantage points outside of the subject lot, subject to the following standards:
(1) Service structures may be grouped together within a provided set of screening.
(2) The height of screening must be at least one (1) foot taller than the service structure being screened, except that no screening shall be required to exceed twelve (12) feet in height.
(3) Dumpsters and donation box enclosures must be screened from public view by an enclosure constructed of material approved by the Planning Commission or Zoning Administrator.
(4) Non-mobile service structures must be enclosed in a continuous set of screening that provides one hundred percent (100%) opacity.
(5) Where service structures abut a building on the same lot, the building wall(s) along the service structures may be included as part of the required screening.
(6) Plant materials used to screen a service structure shall be an evergreen species which retains its needles throughout the year. Deciduous plant material cannot be used to fulfill this screening requirement. The height of evergreen plant material at installation must be equal to, or greater than, two-thirds of the height of the service structure(s) and must meet the height and opacity requirements within four (4) years of planting.
(7) Interior landscaping shall not be required within an area screened for service structures.
(8) Where screening material is placed around any trash disposal unit or waste collection unit which is emptied or removed mechanically on a regularly occurring basis, a curb to contain the placement of the container shall be provided within the screening material on these sides where there is such material. The curbing shall be at least one (1) foot from the material and shall be designed to prevent possible damage to the screening when the container is moved or emptied.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1114.04 STREET TREE AND PUBLIC TREE REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Applicability. In all zones and districts, the planting of street trees shall be required at the time a parcel is developed or redeveloped in accordance with the standards of this Section 1114.04.
(b) Classification and Required Spacing of Trees. For the purposes of this Section 1114.04, trees shall be classified by their mature height and subject to minimum spacing requirements as follows:
(1) Large trees are mature trees of seventy (70) feet or greater in height. Such trees shall have a planting area of pervious ground cover of a diameter of twenty (20) feet or more in width and not located where there will be any overhead wiring.
(2) Medium trees are mature trees between thirty (30) feet and seventy (70) feet in height. Such trees shall have a planting area of pervious ground cover that is a diameter of at least fifteen (15) feet.
(3) Small trees are mature trees less than thirty (30) feet in height. Such trees shall have a planting area of pervious ground cover that is a diameter of at least ten (10) feet.
(c) Trees Located on City-owned Public Property. The following are requirements for the planting, pruning, and removal of trees within City-owned property. For the purposes of this section, City-owned property shall include all public ways, streets, alleys, parks, or other property owned by the Municipality:
(1) It shall be required that all developers plant trees along public streets of their developments in such a manner, type, quantity, and location as approved by the Planning Commission and as defined by the following conditions, and that any undeveloped street or existing street with undeveloped frontage shall conform to these requirements at the time of the development.
(2) The spacing of trees planted along streets will be in accordance with the tree species size classes (large, medium, and small). No trees may be planted closer together than the applicable standards. Large trees shall be spaced not less than fifty (50) feet apart. Medium trees shall be spaced not less than forty (40) feet apart. Small trees shall be spaced not less than thirty (30) feet apart. The size of species should be taken into consideration when applying these standards, except in special plantings designed or approved by the Tree Board.
(3) No tree shall be planted closer than forty (40) feet from any street corner, measured from the point of nearest intersecting curbs or curbings. No tree shall be planted closer than ten (10) feet from any fire hydrant.
(4) The distance trees may be planted from curbs or curblines and sidewalks will be in accordance with the species size classes listed in this Chapter. No trees may be planted closer to any curb, curbline, or sidewalk than as follows: large trees - four (4) feet; medium trees - three (3) feet; small trees - two (2) feet. For streets that do not have curbs, trees shall not be planted closer than the clear zone measurement based on the speed and grading of the street.
(5) No public tree other than those species referred to as small trees in this Chapter may be planted under or within ten (10) lateral feet of any overhead utility wire or planted over or within five (5) lateral feet of any underground water line, sewer line, or other utility.
(6) The developer shall be required to maintain new trees for one (1) year after the trees are planted and to replace any tree which fails to survive or does not exhibit normal growth characteristics of health and vigor within such one (1)-year period. This one (1)-year period shall begin at each planting and shall recommence as trees are replaced.
(7) All trees planted pursuant to these requirements must be at least 1 and 3/4 (1 3/4) inches in diameter, as measured one (1)-foot above grade level, at the time of planting. The lowest branches shall be not less than seven (7) feet above grade level.
(8) Tree planting in the spring shall occur between March 1st and June 15th. Tree planting in the fall shall occur between October 15th and November 30th.
(9) Tree limbs extending over a sidewalk shall be trimmed to such an extent that no portion of the same shall be less than seven (7) feet above the sidewalks. Tree limbs extending over a street shall be trimmed to such an extent that no portion of the same shall interfere with the normal flow of traffic.
(d) Tree Topping. Tree topping is prohibited within all public rights-of-way. It shall be unlawful for any person to top any public tree. Topping is defined as the severe cutting back of limbs so as to remove the normal canopy and disfigure the tree. Public trees severely damaged by storms or other causes or certain trees under utility wires or other obstructions where other pruning practices are impractical may be exempted from this prohibition at the written determination of the City.
(e) Public Tree Care and Municipal Rights Reserved.
(1) The Municipality shall have the right to plant, prune, maintain, and remove all public trees as may be necessary to ensure public safety or to preserve or enhance the symmetry and beauty of public sites.
(2) The City may remove or cause to be removed any public tree or part thereof which is in an unsafe condition or which by reason of its nature is injurious to sewers, electric power lines, gas lines, water lines, or other public improvements, or is affected with any injurious disease, insect, or fungus.
(3) This Section does not prohibit the planting of a tree along streets by property owners providing that the selection of said tree is in accordance with this Chapter.
(4) All public trees located near any excavation or construction of any building, structure, or street work shall be protected at the dripline. All laborers, building materials, dirt, or other debris shall be kept outside this barrier.
(5) No person shall excavate any ditches or trenches within the dripline of a public tree or lay any drive within fifteen (15) feet of a public tree without first obtaining the written approval of the City Engineer.
(6) No person shall hinder, prevent, delay, or interfere with the City, or any of its agents, while engaged in carrying out the execution of enforcement of this Chapter on public or private property; provided, however, that nothing herein shall be construed as an attempt to prohibit the pursuit of any remedy, legal or equitable, in any court of competent jurisdiction for the protection of property rights by the owner of any property within the Municipality.
(f) Reducing Tree Lawn Area Prohibited. No person shall, by any type of construction, temporarily or permanently reduce the size of a tree lawn without first procuring permission from the City Engineer.
(g) Appeal to Adjust Standards.
(1) Any request to adjust the standards required by this Chapter or to appeal a decision of the City in regards to this Chapter shall be made to the Board of Zoning and Building Code Appeals (BZBA) in accordance with Section 1125.01 - Appeal of Administrative Decision. The BZBA shall, upon receipt of a written request, have the authority and duty to consider and act upon the request.
(2) Such an appeal shall clearly and in detail state what adjustments are being sought, the reasons such adjustments are warranted, and shall be accompanied with such supplementary data as is deemed necessary to substantiate the adjustment.
(3) The BZBA may approve, modify, or deny the requested adjustment, based upon the protection of public interest, preservation of the intent of this Chapter, and possible unreasonable hardships involved in the request.
(h) Violations and Penalties.
(1) Any person, firm, or public utility company violating any provision of this Chapter or who fails to comply with any notice issued pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter, upon being found guilty of violation, shall be subject to a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00) for each separate offense.
(2) Each day during which any violation of the provisions of this Chapter shall occur or continue shall be a separate offense.
(3) If, as the result of the violation of any provision of this Chapter, the injury, mutilation, or death of a tree is caused, the cost of repair or replacement of such tree shall be borne by the party in violation. The replacement value of trees shall be determined in accordance with the latest revision of "Valuation of Landscape Trees, Shrubs, and Other Plants" as published by the International Society of Arboriculture.
(i) Public Utility Companies. Regarding trees in a public right-of-way, public utility companies shall operate according to the following:
(1) Public utility companies shall not trim or remove trees located within the public right-of-way without first providing at least seventy-two (72) hours advance notice of said tree trimming or tree removal to the City of Twinsburg, Ohio. Said notice shall be accomplished by written notice to the City Engineer.
(2) The requirements for advance notice shall not be required in emergency service restoration work, when said emergency service restoration work is due to acts of God or acts of nature.
(3) Any public utility failing to provide advance notice prior to trimming or removing trees located within the public right-of-way within the City of Twinsburg shall be guilty of unlawful trimming or removal of trees.
(j) Removal, Replanting, and Replacement in Public Places. No person shall remove a public tree for the purpose of construction or any other reason without the written permission of the City. The City may require replacement of a removed tree as a condition to said approval. Such replacement shall be in accordance with the species listed in this Chapter. The person or property owner shall bear the cost of removal and replacement of all affected public trees.
(k) Abuse or Mutilation of Public Trees. Unless specifically authorized in writing by the City:
(1) No person shall intentionally damage, cut, carve, transplant, whether above or below ground, or transplant or remove any public tree; attach any rope, wire, nails, advertising posters, or other contrivance to any public tree, allow any gaseous liquid or solid substance which is harmful to such trees to come in contact with them; or set fire or permit any fire to burn when such fire or heat therefrom will injure any portion of any public tree.
(2) No person shall pour salt water or a chemical or chemicals upon any street or right-of-way in such a manner as to injure any tree planted or growing thereon.
(3) The City shall not be restricted in the use of anti-icing materials.
(4) No person shall install a driveway or sidewalk within a radius of ten (10) feet from the trunk of any public tree or shrub without first obtaining written approval from the City Engineer.
(l) Placing Materials on Public Property. No person shall deposit, place, store, or maintain upon any public place or within the City any stone, brick, sand, concrete, or other materials which may impede the free passage of water, air, and fertilizer to the roots of any public tree growing therein, except by written approval of the City Engineer.
(m) Public Tree Care. The City shall have the right to enter private property to access trees adjacent to public areas for the purposes of proper pruning, after reasonable prior notice has been given to the property owner. To ensure that street trees thrive, homeowners are encouraged to water the trees as needed.
(n) Dead or Diseased Tree Removal on Private Property. The City shall have the right to cause the removal of any trees on private property within the City when such trees constitute a hazard to life and property.
(1) Notice to remove. Should any person or persons fail to remove trees as herein provided, the City shall order such person or persons within thirty (30) days after receipt of written notices to remove such trees.
(2) Order required. The order herein shall be served by certified mail to the last known address of the property owner.
(3) Failure to comply. When a person to whom an order is directed shall fail to comply within the specified time, it shall be lawful for the City to remove such trees and assess the property owner for the cost of services rendered. (Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1114.05 CLEAR SIGHT TRIANGLE.
(a) Clear Sight Triangle Required. A clear sight triangle shall be observed at all street intersections or intersections of driveways and streets as follows:
(1) At the intersection of two (2) or more rights-of-way, the clear sight triangle shall be the area formed by measuring thirty-five (35) feet from a corner point in each direction with a line connecting the end points; the resulting area subject to the clear sight triangle standards shall be the stretch of land from this line to the corner point, as shown in Figure 1114.05-A: Example Clear Sight Triangles.
(2) At the intersection of a driveway and a right-of-way, the clear sight triangle shall be the area formed by measuring twenty (20) feet from a corner point in each direction with a line connecting the end points (as taken for each corner point on either side of the driveway); the resulting areas subject to the clear sight triangle standards shall be the stretch of land from this line to the corner point, as shown in Figure 1114.05-A: Example Clear Sight Triangles.
 |
(b) Intrusions Restricted. Within a required clear sight triangle, objects shall not obstruct a clear view across the sight triangle in a vertical range between two (2) feet above grade level and eight (8) feet above grade level, except as provided herein. The following standards apply to objects and materials within a required clear sight triangle:
(1) Parked cars are prohibited.
(2) Required grass, no-mow native plans, and ground cover are allowed.
(3) Trees shall only be allowed if, after early growth stages, only the tree trunk (and not its branches or leaves) is visible between two (2) feet and eight (8) feet above grade level, or otherwise does not present a traffic visibility hazard.
(4) Signage is prohibited within, or limited within, a clear sight triangle per the provisions of Section 1116.03(f) - Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Standards. (Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1114.06 TREE AND VEGETATION PROTECTION.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare through the preservation, replacement, and planting of vegetation and trees to:
(1) Lessen air pollution;
(2) Intercept airborne particulate matter;
(3) Reduce noise and light glare;
(4) Moderate air temperature;
(5) Moderate storm water runoff;
(6) Reduce erosion and sedimentation;
(7) Maintain wildlife habitats;
(8) Provide visual screening;
(9) Provide natural shading;
(10) Protect property values; and
(11) Enhance the natural beauty of the community.
(b) Applicability.
(1) The regulations for this Section shall apply to all lands in the City, except as exempted herein.
(2) No person shall carry out any development plan, building activity, or the making of any material change to any structure or the natural surface of the land, including activities that change or disturb the natural surface of the land such as clearing (cutting of trees and woody vegetation), grading, excavating, and filling, except in conformance with the provisions of this Section.
(3) No building permit, grading permit, or erosion and sediment control permit shall be issued for the construction, alteration, or addition to a building, or the grading or alteration of the land surface except as in conformance with the provisions of this Section.
(4) No tree and vegetation removal permit shall be issued for any parcel of land or development that requires an approved site plan (pursuant to Section 1123.01 - Site Plan Review) until a site plan including a tree and vegetation preservation plan is submitted to and approved by the Planning Commission.
(5) No tree and vegetation removal permit shall be issued for any parcel of land or development which requires a subdivision plan approval (pursuant to Chapter 1126 - Subdivision Applications) until a final subdivision plan is approved by the Planning Commission and City Council, and the improvement plan is approved by the City Engineer.
(c) Exemptions. The following activities and properties are exempt from the requirements of this Section and no tree and vegetation removal permit is required:
(1) The removal of dead, diseased, damaged, or hazardous trees (hazardous trees are damaged, dead, or deceased trees which may represent a hazard to public safety or to adjacent property or trees).
(2) Any tree or vegetation within the street right-of-way.
(3) The removal of trees or vegetation required for the installation, maintenance, and repair of underground and overhead Utility Facilities.
(4) The removal of trees and vegetation by an individual homeowner on an owned dwelling lot where such removal is not in conflict with required buffer provisions within Section 1114.03 - Landscaping and Buffering Standards.
(d) Trees Protected Based on Size. All trees having a trunk diameter of eight (8) inches or greater as measured four and one-half (4.5) feet above grade level shall be protected from damage, destruction, or removal. Any type of work, including the construction of new buildings or additions to existing buildings, shall not cause damage, destruction, or removal of such trees. The following trees are exempted from this provision:
(1) Trees that are within public rights-of-way, utility easements, or temporary construction easements as approved by the City Engineer;
(2) Trees on a lot within a nonresidential zones; and
(3) Trees that, in the judgment of the City, are damaged, diseased, over mature, or that interfere with utility lines or are an inappropriate or undesirable species for the given location.
(e) Tree and Vegetation Survey. A tree and vegetation survey shall be prepared and submitted as part of a required site plan (pursuant to Section 1123.01 - Site Plan Review), subject to the following requirements:
(1) The tree and vegetation survey shall be prepared by a landscape architect, arborist, environmental scientist, or similarly qualified individual or company.
(2) The three and vegetation survey shall be drawn at a scale not less than one (1) inch = fifty (50) feet unless, due to the size of the site, a different scale is recommended by the City Engineer.
(3) The tree and vegetation survey shall delineate vegetative cover areas by type (early successional farm field, late successional farm field, shrubs, immature forest, mature forest, etc.). The delineation shall be indicated on a site map by a circumferential line drawn around the approximate limits of groupings of plants of similar age and composition.
(4) A map key or other notation shall be made on the survey map for each vegetative cover type indicating predominant species, average caliper size of woody vegetation, and general appearance in terms of health.
(5) All trees greater than twenty-four (24) inches in diameter at breast height, or which are otherwise noteworthy because of species, uniqueness, rarity, or landmark quality shall be located on the survey with a notation indicating species and general condition in terms of health.
(f) Preservation Plan. A preservation plan shall be prepared at the same scale as the tree and vegetation survey. The preservation plan shall consider the data contained in the tree and vegetation survey in planning any activities that change or disturb the natural surface of the land such as clearing, grading, excavating, and filling. A preservation plan shall be filed prior to the commencement of any of the above activities and must be approved by the Planning Commission. All structures and construction activity shall be located upon a parcel of land in such a way as to minimize tree and vegetation removal, and to preserve wildlife habitat while complying with various setback requirements of the Zoning Code. Building and road elevations shall be designed to minimize the change in existing natural grade. Tree wells, aeration systems, retaining walls, and other methods should be considered to preserve existing tree root systems in and adjacent to construction areas. The preservation plan shall specify the following information:
(1) A construction line indicating all building, parking, vehicular use areas, grading, cut and fill and material stockpile areas, and any other area to be disturbed or cleared of vegetation;
(2) Existing site grading;
(3) Location of all utility lines;
(4) The location of all trees within the construction line which are to be preserved;
(5) The location of all protective fencing and tree protection measures to be employed on site;
(6) Specific locations for parking of all construction vehicles and equipment, and storage of solvents and hazardous materials;
(7) Locations of proposed root pruning or construction pruning; and
(8) Undisturbed areas.
(g) Construction Measures. During all phases of construction, all steps necessary to prevent the destruction or damage to natural vegetation, trees, and wildlife habitat that is shown to remain shall be taken, including but not limited to the following:
(1) No construction activity, movement or placement of equipment, vehicles, or materials or spoils storage shall be permitted outside the construction line indicated on the preservation plan.
(2) No excess soil, additional fill, liquids, or construction debris shall be placed outside the construction area.
(3) Trees to be removed must be marked with X.
(4) Trees to be protected must be marked with a paint marker (outer trees to be marked where clusters are to remain) and the location of protective fencing or other physical barriers around trees and other vegetation to be preserved must be approved by the City Engineer prior to the beginning of construction, including site clearing. For trees, the fencing or other protective barrier must be located a distance from the trunk that equals, at a minimum, the distance of the critical root zone or fifteen (15) feet, whichever is greater, unless otherwise approved by the City Engineer.
(5) Unless otherwise authorized by the plan notes, no soil is to be removed from or placed upon the critical root zone of any tree that is to remain.
(6) All Utility Facilities, including service lines, shall be installed in accordance with an approved preservation plan. The developer has the responsibility of informing utility companies of the approved preservation plan. Public Utility Facilities which have been notified of the approved preservation plan shall be responsible for adhering to said plan during installation of necessary utility service lines. Every effort shall be made to protect trees during placement of utility service lines including auguring and/or jacking as opposed to open cutting.
(h) Tree and Vegetation Replacement. Trees and vegetation shall only be replaced in conformance with all applicable standards of this Chapter 1114 - Landscaping and Buffering.
(i) Exceptions and Variances. The City Engineer may approve the removal of trees, if required, without an approved preservation plan if such tree removal is deemed an emergency or hardship. An emergency may include the removal of hazardous trees, or tree removal to accommodate urgent public improvements. Any denial by the Planning Commission, City Council, City Engineer, or other administrative official in the administration of this Section can be appealed to the Board of Zoning and Building Code Appeals in accordance with Section 1125.01 - Appeal of Administrative Decision.
(j) Penalty. Whoever violates any provision of this Section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. Punishment shall be as provided in Section 501.99 of the General Offense Code. A separate offense shall be deemed committed on each day such violation continues. (Ord. 68-24. Approved by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1114.07 LANDSCAPING PLAN SUBMISSION AND APPROVAL.
(a) Applicability. Whenever a property is subject to landscape requirements from this Chapter 1114 - Landscaping and Buffering, the property owner or developer shall prepare a landscape plan for submittal to the Planning Commission for review.
(b) Landscape Plan Contents. The contents of a complete landscape plan must include the following:
(1) A site plan, drawn to an easily readable scale no smaller than one (1) inch = twenty (20) feet, showing and labeling by name and dimensions all existing and proposed property lines, easements, buildings and other structures on the subject lot and on adjoining lots, vehicular use areas, driveways, service areas, water outlets, existing trees and landscape materials, and the proposed landscape materials, including botanical name and common name, installation size, on center planting dimensions where applicable, and quantities for all plants used;
(2) Typical elevations and/or cross sections as necessary to document conformance with applicable standards;
(3) Title block with the pertinent names and addresses, property owner, scale, date, north arrow, zones, and person drawing the plan; and
(4) Site grading with a minimum of one (1)-foot contour intervals.
(c) Building Permits and Certificates of Occupancy. Where landscaping is required, no building permit shall be issued until the required landscaping plan has been submitted and approved. If the required landscaping has not been completed and a temporary certificate of occupancy is issued, a performance bond or irrevocable letter of credit from a banking institution may be required.
(d) Posting of Bond or Irrevocable Letter of Credit.
(1) Sites must be stabilized, temporarily and/or permanently, in accordance with the requirements of Ohio EPA Construction Permits.
(2) After a bond or irrevocable letter of credit has been posted, the landscaping material required in the approved landscaping plan shall be installed within six (6) months after the date of posting the bond or irrevocable letter of credit.
(3) A three (3)-month extension of the planting period may be granted by the City Engineer upon a demonstration by the property owner of developer that such an extension is warranted because of adverse weather conditions or unavailability of required plant materials. No more than two (2) such extensions may be granted.
(4) Foreclosure proceedings shall be brought against the performance bond or irrevocable letter of credit if the required landscaping plans have not been complied with by the end of the approved planting period.
(e) Appeals of Denied Landscape Plan. Any landscape plan submitted to and denied by the Planning Commission may be appealed according to the procedure provided for in Section 1122.03 - Board of Zoning and Building Code Appeals.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1115.01 APPLICABILITY.
(a) Compliance Required. The standards of this Chapter 1115 apply to proposed new buildings and uses on a lot in any zone or district.
(b) Change of Use or Enlargement of Premises. In all zones or districts, when a building, structure or premises has a change of use, addition of dwelling units, expansion of gross floor area, expansion of seating capacity, or other units of measure specified herein for required parking facilities which creates a need for an increase of more than fifteen percent (15%) in off-street parking spaces, additional facilities as required herein shall be provided only for such increase in use.
(c) Modification of Standards.
(1) The standards of this Chapter may be modified by the provisions of Chapter 1111 - Use-Specific Standards.
(2) Minimum parking requirements may be reduced by up to ten percent (10%) if pervious pavement or pervious pavers are used for an area and number of spaces equivalent to the reduction from the applicable standards of Table 1115.02-A: Schedule of Minimum Required Parking Spaces.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1115.02 COMPREHENSIVE PARKING STANDARDS.
(a) Off-street Parking. In all zones or districts, in connection with every building or part thereof hereinafter created, off-street parking facilities shall be provided as prescribed by this Chapter.
(b) Schedule of Parking Requirements. Parking facilities shall be provided on each lot for a given use in quantities not less than as set forth in Table 1115.02-A: Schedule of Minimum Required Parking Spaces.
Proposed Land Use | Minimum Number of Parking Spaces Required |
Residential Uses | |
Multi-Unit, One-Unit, Two-Unit Dwelling | Non-senior living: 1.5 per dwelling unit Senior living: .25 per dwelling unit |
Commercial and Office Uses | |
Entertainment Establishment (Adult) | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA + 1 land banked space per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Entertainment Establishment (Non-Adult) | 1 per 750 sf. GFA |
Fast Food Eating Establishment | 5 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Hotel or Motel | 1.2 per guest bedroom |
Kennel | 1 per 750 sf. of office area + 1 per 15,000 sf. GFA (excluding office areas) |
Monument Sale and Display | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Microbrewery and/or Microdistillery | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Life Care Facility | 1.2 per bedroom |
Office (Medical) | Lesser of (A) 1 per 400 sf. of GFA; or (B) 2.5 per patient room |
Office (Non-Medical) | 1 per 750 sf. GFA |
Off-Street Public Parking Lot and Garage | 1 per 750 sf. of office area |
Passenger Transportation Agency and Terminal | 1 per 2,000 sf. GFA |
Places of Assembly (Theaters, Halls, Arenas) | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Radio and Television Broadcasting Station | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Retail Outside Sale | 1 per 750 sf. of office area + 1 per 10,000 sf. of growing and storage area (indoor and outdoor) |
Proposed Land Use | Minimum Number of Parking Spaces Required |
Retail Sale (Perishable Goods) | 1 per 500 sf. GFA |
Retail Sale (Non-Perishable Goods) | 1 per 750 sf. GFA |
Service-Oriented Use | 1 per 500 sf. GFA |
Tavern, Bar and Pub | 1 per 500 sf. GFA |
Telecommunication Tower | 2 per tower |
Automotive Uses | |
Automotive Body Repair | 3 per auto repair service bay |
Automotive Charging Service (1) | 2 per charging bay |
Automotive Sales and Rental | 1 per 500 sf. GFA |
Automotive Service, Major | 4 per auto repair service bay |
Automotive Service, Minor | 3 per auto repair service bay |
Car Wash | 1 per 1,000 sf. of office area |
Drive-Up Service Window | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA (2) |
Gasoline/Fuel Service Station | 1 per fuel pump island + 1 per 500 sf. GFA of retail areas |
Institution, Public, Recreational Uses | |
Adult Day Care | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Cemetery | 1 per 750 sf. of indoor spaces |
Child Day Care Center | 3 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Civic Use (Churches, Libraries, Museums) | 1 per 750 sf. GFA |
Club or Lodge | 1 per 750 sf. GFA |
Government, Municipal, County, State and Federal Use | 1 per 750 sf. GFA |
Hospital | 2.5 per patient room |
Mortuary/Funeral Home | 1 per 750 sf. of indoor space |
Recreation Use | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Religious Institution | 1 per 750 sf. GFA |
Proposed Land Use | Minimum Number of Parking Spaces Required |
School - Primary/Secondary | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
School - Post-Secondary | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
School - Vocational | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Utility Facilities | 1 per lot |
Veterinarian Hospital or Clinic | 2 per clinic room |
Industrial Uses | |
Brewing or Distilling of Liquor | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Gas and Oil Well | 2 per well |
Industry, Light | For GFA less than 40,000 sf.: 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA For GFA 40,000 sf. or greater: 1 per 2,500 sf. GFA |
Industry, Medium | For GFA less than 40,000 sf.: 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA For GFA 40,000 sf. or greater: 1 per 2,500 sf. GFA |
Industry, Heavy | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Marijuana Cultivation | 1 per 3,000 sf. GFA |
Marijuana Dispensary | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Marijuana Processing | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Outside Storage | 1 per 750 sf. of indoor spaces |
Pet Cremation | 1 per 1,000 sf. GFA |
Steam Plant | 1 per 2,000 sf. GFA |
Accessory/Temporary Uses | |
Accessory Dwelling Unit | 1.5 per accessory dwelling unit (3) |
Helistop | None |
Home Occupation | None |
Solar Energy Collection System | None |
Wind Energy Turbine | None |
Table Notes: GFA = Gross Floor Area, the total floor area of the given use. sf. = square feet. (1) Minimum required parking for automotive charging services shall only apply to lots where such use is the principal use (and not to lots where electric vehicle charging is exclusively an accessory use). (2) Minimum required parking for a drive-up service window shall only apply if separate minimum required parking for other uses on the lot would yield less than 1 parking space per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area. (3) Minimum required parking for an accessory dwelling unit applies in addition to other applicable parking requirements for the subject lot. |
(c) Undefined Uses. For uses not explicitly included in Table 1115.02-A: Schedule of Minimum Required Parking Spaces, the Planning Commission shall apply the unit of measurement from the table that is deemed to be similar to the proposed use. If no similar use is listed, the Planning Commission may assign a standard it deems appropriate for the site and nature of the use proposed.
(d) Floor Area Identified. For the purposes of this Chapter and the provisions of Table 1115.02-A: Schedule of Minimum Required Parking Spaces:
(1) "Floor area" in offices, merchandising, and service types of uses shall mean the area used for services to, and accessible by, the public - excluding those areas used principally for nonpublic purposes such as storage, incidental repair, processing, and show windows.
(2) "Gross floor area" shall mean the total floor area of the particular use.
(e) ADA Standards. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires universal accessibility to goods and services for people of all abilities. Parking spaces reserved for accessibility compliance with ADA, in addition to the minimum parking requirements provided in Table 1115.02-A: Schedule of Minimum Required Parking Spaces, shall be provided in quantities not less than as set forth in Table 1115.02-B: Schedule of Required Accessible Parking Spaces.
Total Number of Parking Spaces in Facility (Lot or Garage or Site) | Required Minimum Number of Accessible Parking Spaces (1) |
1 to 25 | 1 |
26 to 50 | 2 |
51 to 75 | 3 |
76 to 100 | 4 |
101 to 150 | 5 |
151 to 200 | 6 |
201 to 300 | 7 |
301 to 400 | 8 |
401 to 500 | 9 |
501 to 1000 | 2% of total |
1001 and over | 20 + 1 for each set of 100 parking spaces provided, or fraction thereof, over 100 parking spaces |
Table Notes: (1) For every 6 (or fraction of 6) parking spaces required by the table shown, at least 1 shall be an accessible van parking space. | |
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1115.03 DESIGN STANDARDS.
(a) Parking Area Design.
(1) Parking areas shall be designed in accordance with the standards of Table 1115.03-A: Required Parking Facility Dimensions and shall be so graded and drained as to dispose of all surface water accumulation within the parking area.
(2) The maximum grade within a parking area shall not exceed five percent (5%) for parking stalls and shall not exceed six percent (6%) for driveways and roadways within parking areas
(3) Except within the PF Zone, hard-paved, non-gravel surfaces with continuous concrete curbing or permeable pavement as approved by the City Engineer must be provided for off-street parking areas and associated driveways of five (5) or more parking spaces. Continuous curbing may be omitted only upon a recommendation of the City Engineer after a determination that an alternative to continuous concrete curbing is preferred for water quality concerns or similar reasons.
(4) On lots within the PF Zone, parking areas serving parks and natural areas may be constructed of gravel or pervious surface materials and without continuous curbing. Entry drives serving such facilities must be paved with asphalt or concrete for the first forty-five (45) feet of drive length to avoid the transport of stones or loose material to the public right-of-way.
(b) Parking Stall and Aisle Dimensions.
(1) Off-street parking facilities shall be designed per the standards of Table 1115.03-A: Required Parking Facility Dimensions, as applicable. An example of a parking area layout illustrating the standards of Table 1115.03 A: Required Parking Facility Dimensions is shown in Figure 1115.03 A: Example Parking Lot Layout.
(2) Circulation aisles having a dimension of less than twenty-three (23) feet shall be one-way aisles. Dimensions for parking angles other than those listed above shall be approved by the City Engineer.
Angle of Parking Stall from Drive Aisle | ||||
Standard | 45 Degrees | 60 Degrees | 75 Degrees | 90 Degrees |
Interlock Width (min.) | 40 feet | 50.5 feet | 54.5 feet | 59 feet |
Drive Aisle Width (min.) | 11 feet | 16.3 feet | 19.1 feet | 23 feet |
Parking Stall Depth (min.) | 14.5 feet | 17.1 feet | 17.7 feet | 18 feet |
Curb Stall Width (min.) | 12.7 feet | 9.9 feet | 9.3 feet | 9 feet |
 |
(c) Vehicular Access Drives.
(1) No property located on a major arterial thoroughfare or collector street shall have more than one (1) vehicular access drive, unless the property has over 200 feet of frontage upon such a street, in which case the property may have 1 vehicular access drive for each full 200 feet of frontage, with such vehicular access drives spaces no less than 200 feet apart.
(2) In residential zones, vehicular access drives from a right-of-way shall not be less than ten (10) feet wide and shall not be wider than twenty-four (24) feet along the curb line of the street and up to an intervening sidewalk (if applicable).
(3) In nonresidential zones, vehicular access drives from a right-of-way shall not be less than twenty-four (24) feet in width and shall not be wider than thirty-four (34) feet along the curb line of the street.
(4) Vehicular access drives from a right-of-way in the C-3 Zone shall not be permitted to be closer than 400 feet from the centerline of the nearest interchange ramp, where such ramp intersects an arterial highway or major thoroughfare.
(5) The apron width along a right-of-way shall be a minimum of 6 feet wider than the width of the access drive.
(d) Location of Parking Areas Restricted. Parking areas may only be located within side and/or rear yards except as follows:
(1) In any residential zone, parking may be permitted in front-yard driveways except that no vehicle over 8,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, and not more than two (2) vehicles per household used for a home occupation or business purpose shall be parked in the front-yard driveway.
(2) In the C-1, C-2, C-3, and I-1 zones, off-street parking facilities may be located in the front yard provided that points of access and related landscaping are compliant with all applicable provisions of this Code.
(3) In the I-M zone, the majority of off-street parking spaces on a lot must be constructed in side and/or rear yards with limited parking constructed in a front yard, provided that points of access and related landscaping are compliant with all applicable provisions of this Code.
(e) Parking Areas in DWTN District. Parking areas within the DWTN district may not be located in a front yard and may not be closer to a front lot line that the principal building on the same lot.
(f) Driveways in Residential Zones. Driveways within any residential zone may not be closer to a side lot line than five (5) feet.
(g) Shared Parking Agreements. Parking spaces required for a use shall be located on the lot of such use except as follows:
(1) Churches, civic clubs, community centers, and clubs/lodges may, subject to approval by Planning Commission, make parking arrangements with business establishments which normally have different hours of operation for sharing up to, but not more than, fifty percent (50%) of their requirements in adjacent parking areas which are accessory to such business uses. Where there is a sharing of facilities by different owners or tenants, there shall be a written agreement covering a period of time as may be required by the Planning Commission, to be signed by the owner and joint user and filed in the Building Department. Should any of the uses be changed or the facilities discontinued, then the required spaces for the use or uses remaining shall be provided elsewhere as a condition precedent to the continued use of such building or buildings.
(2) For businesses and industrial uses, the Planning Commission may modify the number of spaces required where free parking areas or public parking areas are readily accessible and/or where public transportation is regularly available.
(3) Parking facilities must be provided on the same lot as the use being served, except where modified by the Planning Commission in recognition of binding joint use agreements. At least fifty percent (50%) of the parking spaces required by these regulations must be provided on the lot of the use generating the demand. Where there is a sharing of facilities by different owners or tenants, an agreement specifying the number of spaces and period of time the agreement will be binding must be submitted, reviewed, and recommended by the Planning Commission. Such agreement must be by lease or deed restriction properly filed in the Recorder's office.
(h) Continuation of Facilities. Off-street parking and loading facilities accessory to an existing use on the effective date of this Zoning Ordinance and those required as accessory to a use created or a building constructed or altered thereafter, may be continued and maintained in operation and shall not be reduced below the requirements of this Zoning Ordinance during the period that the main use is maintained, unless an equivalent number of spaces is provided for such use in another location approved by the Planning Commission.
(i) Parking Area Landscaping Requirements. Parking areas must provide landscaping and screening in compliance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 1114 - Landscaping and Buffering.
(j) Loading and Unloading Space Requirements. Every building or use customarily receiving or distributing goods by motor vehicle shall provide space on the premises for loading purposes subject to the following standards:
(1) At the discretion of the Planning Commission, every such use having over 5,000 square feet of gross floor area shall be provided with at least 1 truck loading and unloading space not less than twelve (12) feet in width, forty (40) feet in length, and fourteen (14) feet in height clearance across the entirety of such space. One additional loading/unloading space meeting these dimensions shall be required per additional 20,000 square feet of gross floor area in the building.
(2) Loading spaces may be regulated for specific delivery hours and allowed for use by the public outside of such restricted hours.
(3) Access to truck loading and unloading space shall be provided directly from a public stree or alley that will not interfere with public convenience and that will permit the orderly and safe movement of such trucks.
(4) Loading space as required under this section shall be provided in addition to the off-street parking spaces required and shall not be considered as supplying off-street parking space.
(k) Landbanked Parking. If the Planning Commission determines that the total number of off-street parking spaces required by this chapter is not reasonably necessary to meet the actual parking demand for a specific facility, it may allow the developer to construct a lesser number of actual parking spaces in accordance with the following provisions:
(1) A site must plan be presented to the Commission indicating the accommodation of the total number of spaces required and indicating which spaces are proposed to be constructed;
(2) The entire landbanked parking area(s) shall be improved with appropriate landscape treatment acceptable to the Planning Commission; and
(3) If the Planning Commission determines that the actual parking demand, a future change of use or tenancy, and/or expansion of the use requires additional off-street parking spaces, such additional parking shall be provided in the previously landbanked area(s) on the site.
(l) Parking Area Illumination. Illumination is required within parking areas and must meet the applicable standards of Section 1112.05 - Outdoor Lighting.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1115.04 PARKING AREA SETBACK STANDARDS.
Front | Rear & Side | Rear & Side (abutting Residential) | |
ZONE | |||
R-6 | 50 feet | 10 feet | 25' |
R-7 | 50 feet | 10 feet | 25' |
C-1 | 20 feet | 10 feet | 30 feet |
C-2 | 20 feet | 10 feet | 30 feet |
C-3 | 25 feet | 10 feet | 30 feet |
I-1 | 50 feet 100 feet (arterial) | 10 feet | 30 feet |
I-M | 50 feet 100 feet (arterial) | 10 feet | 30 feet |
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1115.05 PARKED VEHICLE STANDARDS.
(a) Non-passenger Vehicles and Nonresidential Equipment in Residential Zones. Within residential zones, the placing, storing, or parking of commercial vehicles or equipment including trucks, vans, panel trucks, bulldozers, backhoes, semi-tractors/trailers, buses, and the like on a lot or on a public street is prohibited except as follows:
(1) Such vehicles may be so placed, parked, and allowed to stand for a period during the delivery therefrom or the pickup of articles or materials to be used or consumed on the related premises.
(2) Vehicles displaying license plates issued to a person with disabilities and imprinted with the international wheelchair symbol, or vehicles displaying a valid parking card issued by the State of Ohio to persons with disabilities is allowed.
(3) Vehicles and equipment that are used in connection with constructing, altering, repairing, maintaining, or cleaning a building on such lot when the described work is in progress are allowed to be so placed, parked, and/or allowed to stand.
(4) The use and storage of a truck within a garage must not result in a public nuisance which is offensive to neighboring property owners or residents by reason of excessive noise, late hours of truck use, intensity of activity, or other such reasons.
(5) The vehicle has only equipment as originally purchased which may include a top on a pickup truck but does not include ladders or other equipment or materials placed or stored on the exterior of the vehicle.
(b) Recreation Vehicles and Recreational Equipment in Residential Zones. The placing, parking, and/or storing of recreational vehicles and/or equipment associated with recreational uses in a residential zone shall be subject to the following:
(1) Not more than one open air parking space for a recreational vehicle used for recreational purposes by the occupants of the dwelling may be located in a side or rear yard area provided that such vehicle is set back at least five (5) feet from side and rear lot lines, and that such vehicle is not temporarily located within the front lot line setback area for a period exceeding forty-eight (48) hours.
(2) All such vehicles and equipment shall be maintained in good repair, in operable condition, and must carry a current and valid license and/or registration, if required by law.
(3) No such vehicles or equipment shall be connected to electricity, sewers, water, or gas Utility Facilities, nor be occupied for housekeeping or living purposes for more than three (3) days and nights.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1116.01 GENERAL PROVISIONS.
(a) Purpose and Objectives. The provisions of this Chapter 1116 are intended to promote the general safety and welfare of the citizens of the city by facilitating communication between people and their environment through the establishment of a comprehensive system of sign regulations. The objectives of these provisions are:
(1) To promote the construction of functional signs;
(2) To encourage variety and visual interest in the design and usage of signs;
(3) To protect the rights and investments of individual property owners;
(4) To require all signs to be properly constructed, installed, and maintained;
(5) To regulate signs to be appropriately scaled and located within their respective zone or district;
(6) To encourage signs to be legible and harmonious in design with surrounding properties;
(7) To reduce visual clutter through the broadly applicable limits on the number, size, and location of signs; and
(8) To eliminate conflicts between signs and traffic control devices to avoid or mitigate hazards to the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicle operators.
(b) Intent.
(1) The provisions of this Chapter 1116 are not intended to infringe upon, or restrict, rights of free speech protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, or Article I, Paragraph 11 of the Ohio Constitution.
(2) These regulations shall be interpreted in a content-neutral manner except for those legally recognized exceptions explicitly identified herein.
(3) These regulations shall be applied in compliance with such other federal and state laws as may be now or hereafter enacted, when not in conflict with them.
(c) Applicability. Except as otherwise specified, the provisions of this Chapter 1116 apply to the following:
(1) All signage within the city that may be directly viewed from a right-of-way;
(2) All signage that may be directly viewed from a lot other than the lot on which the sign is located; and
(3) All signage that may be directly viewed from an unrestricted, publicly accessible outdoor space, including but not limited to surface parking lots, unenclosed yards, and driveways that are not gated.
(d) Applicability of Building Code and Electrical Code.
(1) A sign regulated by this Chapter 1116 shall be subject to the construction, installation, and maintenance requirements of this Chapter and of the Ohio Basic Building Code (OBBC).
(2) A sign that incorporates illumination and/or electronic components shall be subject to the provisions of the National Electric Code (NFPA 70).
(e) Sign Permit Required. Except where explicitly exempted, no sign shall be installed, constructed, erected, altered, relocated, or replaced without first receiving an approved sign permit pursuant to Section 1123.02 - Sign Permit.
(1) Addresses, as defined in Title 7 - Definitions and as required by Chapter 907 of the Twinsburg Codified Ordinances, that are ten (10) square feet or less in surface area;
(2) Signage that is an integral part of the original construction of vending or similar machines, fuel pumps, and similar devices;
(3) Cornerstones and permanent building plaques that are carved into stone and/or that are an integral, structural component of a load-bearing wall;
(4) Seasonal lighting, decorations, and related elements that are in place for less than sixty-one (61) consecutive days and do not require heavy equipment to move or remove;
(5) Signs and/or notices issued by any court, officer, or other person in performance of a public duty;
(6) Signs required by law to be installed;
(7) Signs installed by a government entity;
(8) Scoreboards and related components in athletic fields that are oriented towards the field of play;
(9) Signs on operable, licensed motor vehicles (except for such signs that are prohibited per Section 1116.04 - Prohibited and Nuisance Signs);
(10) Signs under six (6) square feet that are located within or immediately abutting a parking stall; and
(11) Signs that are flat to a horizontal surface, such as a sidewalk or a parking lot, and that are designed to be walked, driven, or otherwise traveled over.
(g) Signs Allowed Without a Permit. Signs that are allowed without a permit per Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards do not require an approved sign permit but must comply with all applicable design standards provided in this Chapter.
(h) Modification of Standards. The standards of this Chapter may be modified by the provisions of Chapter 1111 - Use-Specific Standards and other sections of this Code.
(i) Sign Program Requirements. In addition to a sign permit (in accordance with Section 1123.02) multi-tenant commercial properties must receive approval of a sign program that specifies the following characteristics of signs to be placed on the property. Properties other than multi-tenant commercial properties may apply for approval of a sign program. Such sign program shall provide a unified approach to signage across a given multi-tenant commercial property. An approved sign program shall apply to all current and future signs on the property unless the sign program is duly amended in accordance with Section 1123.02. Such characteristics shall specify:
(1) The palette of colors that may be used in a sign's background and copy;
(2) Signage illumination style(s);
(3) The palette of materials that may be used for sign faces and sign support structures;
(4) Number of signs that may be installed;
(5) Types of signs that may be installed;
(6) Types of signs that will not be installed; and
(7) Similar design elements of signs.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1116.02 SIGNAGE MEASUREMENTS.
(a) Surface Area of Ground Signs and Projecting Signs. The following provisions apply in calculating the surface area of ground signs and projecting signs:
(1) The sign area of a ground sign or projecting sign shall be the area of the largest sign face, whether a single-faced, double-faced, or multi-faced sign.
(2) Supporting structures, pole covers, and other decorative elements displaying no copy shall not be included in the calculation of the sign surface area.
Sign area shall be determined by enclosing the entire perimeter of the largest sign face enclosed within simple rectangular envelopes and calculating the area contained therein, as shown in the red outlined area in Figure 1116.02-A: Sign Surface Area Measurement Example 1
 |
(b) Surface Area of Wall Signs, Window Signs, Awning Signs, and Canopy Signs. The following provisions apply in calculating the surface area of window signs, awning signs, and canopy signs:
(1) The supporting wall, window, or surrounding fascia, awning, or canopy shall not be included in the calculation of sign surface area, except where there is a change of color or material which forms a background for the sign copy.
(2) Sign surface area for awning, canopy, and other signs consisting of individual letters or symbols against a surface shall be measured as the minimum area enclosed by rectangular envelopes completely enclosing the extreme points or edges of letters, images, logos, or attached groups thereof, as shown in Figure 1116.02-B: Sign Surface Area Measurement Example 2
 |
A. Height to sign top edge. The height to the top edge of a sign shall be measured as the distance between grade level at the base of or beneath the sign or associated sign support structure and the highest point of the highest element of the sign, including the height of sign support structures that are not a building, as shown in Figure 1116.02-C: Height to Sign Top Edge Measurement Example
 |
(A) Height to sign bottom edge. The height to the bottom edge of a sign shall be measured as the distance between grade level at the base of or beneath the sign or associated sign support structure and the lowest point of the lowest element of the sign that can be traveled under, including sign support structures that are not a building, as shown in Figure 1116.02-D: Height to Sign Bottom Edge Measurement Example
 |
1116.03 COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PERMISSIONS AND STANDARDS.
(a) Overview of Sign Types. Table 1116.03-A: Sign Types Overview provides the definition and an example illustration of specified types of signs.
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Awning/Canopy (Building-Mounted) Sign. A sign affixed flat to the surface of an Awning or to a Building-Mounted Canopy and which does not extend vertically or horizontally beyond the limits of such awning or canopy. |  |
Banner (Temporary) Sign. A sign other than an awning sign that is made of or printed on flexible material like fabric or vinyl and designed to be quickly installed or easily removed. Examples of banners include, but are not limited to, streamers, bunting, pennants, ensigns, and standards. |  |
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Canopy (Ground-Mounted) Sign. A sign that is attached to a vertical face of a Ground-Mounted Canopy. |  |
Development ID Sign. A permanent sign placed at a Vehicular Entrance to a Development. |  |
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Electronic Message Center Sign. A sign or portion thereof displaying illuminating letters, numbers, characters, symbols, graphics, or illustrations. Such illumination may consist of cathode ray tubes, light emitting diodes, liquid crystals, plasma, fiber optics, light bulbs, reflective or refractive digital light processing, or other illumination devices. Such signage includes images or messages that may change in sequence immediately, by means of fading or other similar processes. Such displays may change automatically at predetermined intervals or may be changed by an operator. This definition includes signs that are projected by any means onto a Building or a Lot. |  |
Feather Sign. A temporary sign made of flexible material that may bend or move in the wind. Such signs are typically mounted to the ground and are not hoisted on a pole through a pulley system or similar mechanical device. |  |
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Manual Changeable Copy Sign. A sign or portion thereof whose copy can be changed by mechanical or manual means without altering the face or surface of the sign. |  |
Monument Sign. A sign that is incorporated in, affixed to, or otherwise mounted to a ground-supported masonry wall or masonry pedestal and that does not have a gap between the bottom edge of the sign face and the top edge of the supporting masonry wall or masonry pedestal. |  |
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Off-Premises Sign. Any sign, including Electronic Message Center Signs, relating to products, accommodations, service, or activities available to the public off the premises on which the sign is located. |  |
Post and Panel Sign. A sign suspended from or otherwise connected to one or more posts that are mounted directly into the ground. |  |
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Projecting Sign. A sign that is substantially perpendicular to the surface to which it is attached. Such a sign is typically attached to or hanging from a bracket. |  |
Roof Sign. A sign that is attached to or supported by the roof of a building; or a sign that extends above the roofline of the building to which it is attached. |  |
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Sandwich Board Sign. A stationary, double-faced temporary sign that rests on the ground. |  |
Vehicular Use Area Sign. A relatively small sign that is located in a vehicular use area. Such sign may be placed on a post, above a pathway, or flat on the ground to be traveled over, in addition to other configurations. |  |
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Wall Sign. A sign applied on a non-window surface of a Building with a sign face parallel to such surface. |  |
Window Sign. A sign that is painted, attached, or affixed to the interior or exterior surface of windows or doors of a Building or suspended on the inside or outside of the windows or doors. A single window sign includes any portions of a message and associated graphics that span across separate panes of glass where such areas of separation or interruption are not wider than 18 inches. |  |
Sign Type and Definition | Example Illustration |
Yard Sign. A freestanding sign that is intended to be displayed for a limited period. Such signs do not include signs and/or associated supporting structures that are anchored in concrete, constructed of masonry, or that require heavy equipment to be moved within a lot or removed from a lot. |  |
(b) Comprehensive Sign Table. Specified types of signs shall be subject to the standards of Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards. Signs shall be allowed with a permit, allowed without a permit, or prohibited per the following key:
(1) A solid circle identifies a sign type that is allowed through the approval of a sign permit (pursuant to Section 1123.02 - Sign Permit) subject to all applicable standards.
(2) A half-filled circle identifies a sign type that is allowed without approval of a sign permit, subject to all applicable standards.
(3) A hyphen identifies a sign type that is not allowed within a specified zone or district.
(4) Signs that are allowed and do not require a sign permit will not be counted against the maximum cumulative number of signs allowed.
(5) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, in addition to any other permitted signs, where permitted, only one monument sign or one post and panel sign shall be permitted on a parcel.
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
BANNER (TEMPORARY) SIGN | |||||
Banner (Temporary Sign) | - | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ |
Maximum Number Allowed | N/A | 1 per lot | 1 per lot | 1 per lot | 1 per lot |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | N/A | 32 square feet | 32 square feet | 32 square feet | 32 square feet |
Minimum Height from Grade Level to Sign Bottom Edge | N/A | 8 feet | 8 feet | 8 feet | 8 feet |
Maximum Height from Grade Level to Sign Top Edge | N/A | 20 feet | 20 feet | 20 feet | 20 feet |
Maximum Display Period | N/A | 14 calendar days (up to 4 times per year) | 14 calendar days (up to 4 times per year) | 14 calendar days (up to 4 times per year) | 14 calendar days (up to 4 times per year) |
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
CANOPY (GROUND-MOUNTED) SIGN | |||||
Canopy (Ground-Mounted Sign) | - | - | ∙ | - | - |
Maximum Number Allowed | N/A | N/A | 2 per lot | N/A | N/A |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | N/A | N/A | 20 square feet | N/A | N/A |
Location Requirements | N/A | N/A | Sign shall not extend above or below the canopy | N/A | N/A |
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
DEVELOPMENT ID SIGN | |||||
Development ID Sign | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ |
Maximum Number Allowed | 1 per vehicular entrance | 1 per vehicular entrance | 1 per vehicular entrance | 1 per vehicular entrance | 1 per vehicular entrance |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | 40 square feet | 40 square feet | 100 square feet | 100 square feet | 100 square feet |
Maximum Height from Grade Level to Sign Top Edge | 8 feet | 8 feet | 15 feet | 15 feet | 15 feet |
Minimum Sign Setback from Lot Lines and Rights-of-Way | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet |
Location Requirements | Sign shall not be within a clear sight triangle | Sign shall not be within a clear sight triangle | Sign shall not be within a clear sight triangle | Sign shall not be within a clear sight triangle | Sign shall not be within a clear sight triangle |
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
MONUMENT SIGN AND POST AND PANEL SIGN | |||||
Monument Sign and Post and Panel Sign | - | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ |
Maximum Number Allowed | N/A | 1 of either per parcel | 1 of either per parcel | 1 of either per parcel | 1 of either per parcel |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | N/A | 40 square feet | 40 square feet | 40 square feet | 40 square feet |
Minimum Sign Setback from Lot Lines and Rights-of-Way | N/A | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet |
Maximum Height from Grade Level to Sign Top Edge | N/A | 8 feet | 8 feet | 8 feet | 8 feet |
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
MONUMENT SIGN AND POST AND PANEL SIGN | |||||
Location Requirements | N/A | Monument signs shall provide a minimum separation of 200 feet from other monument signs on the same lot Monument signs shall provide a minimum separation of 25 feet from other monument signs on separate lots | Monument signs shall provide a minimum separation of 200 feet from other monument signs on the same lot Monument signs shall provide a minimum separation of 25 feet from other monument signs on separate lots | N/A | Monument signs shall provide a minimum separation of 200 feet from other monument signs on the same lot Monument signs shall provide a minimum separation of 25 feet from other monument signs on separate lots |
OFF-PREMISES SIGN | |||||
Off-Premises Sign | - | - | - | - | - |
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
PROJECTING SIGN | |||||
Projecting Sign | - | - | - | ∙ | - |
Maximun Number Allowed | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 per public entrance | N/A |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | N/A | N/A | N/A | 10 square feet | N/A |
Minimum Height from Grade Level to Sign Bottom Edge | N/A | N/A | N/A | 8 feet | N/A |
Location Requirements | N/A | N/A | N/A | Sign shall be no closer than 10 feet to a lot line within any residential zone | N/A |
ROOF SIGN | |||||
Roof Sign | - | - | - | - | - |
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
SANDWICH BOARD SIGN | |||||
Sandwich Board Sign | - | - | - | ∙ | - |
Maximum Number Allowed | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 per public entrance | N/A |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | N/A | N/A | N/A | 6 square feet | N/A |
Location Requirements | N/A | N/A | N/A | Sign shall be within 20 feet of a public entrance | N/A |
Maximum Height from Grade Level to Sign Top Edge | N/A | N/A | N/A | 6 feet | N/A |
Maximum Display Period | N/A | N/A | N/A | During operating hours of associated use | N/A |
Allowed Illumination | N/A | N/A | N/A | None | N/A |
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
VEHICULAR USE AREA SIGN | |||||
Vehicular Use Area Sign | ‚ | ‚ | ‚ | ‚ | ‚ |
Maximum Number Allowed | 4 per vehicular entrance | 4 per vehicular entrance | 4 per vehicular entrance | 4 per vehicular entrance | 4 per vehicular entrance |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | 6 square feet | 6 square feet | 6 square feet | 6 square feet | 6 square feet |
Maximum Height from Grade Level to Sign Top Edge | 4 feet | 4 feet | 4 feet | 4 feet | 4 feet |
Minimum Height from Grade Level to Sign Bottom Edge (2) | 9 feet | 9 feet | 9 feet | 9 feet | 9 feet |
Minimum Sign Setback from Lot Lines and Rights-of-Way (3) | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet |
Table Notes | (2) This standard for maximum height from grade level shall not apply to vehicular use area signs that are installed above a passable pathway (by pedestrians and/or vehicles) | (3) This standard for minimum height from grade level shall only apply to vehicular use area signs that are installed above a passable pathway (by pedestrians and/or vehicles) | |||
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
WALL/AWNING SIGN | |||||
Wall/Awning Sign | - | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ | ∙ |
Maximum Number Allowed (4) | N/A | 1 sign per building elevation facing a right-of-way | 1 sign per building elevation facing a right-of-way | 1 sign per building elevation facing a right-of-way | 1 sign per building elevation facing a right-of-way |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | N/A | 1.5 square foot per lineal building elevation width of applicable elevation | 1.5 square foot per lineal building elevation width of applicable elevation | 1.5 square foot per lineal building elevation width of applicable elevation | Lesser of (A) 1.5 square feet per lineal building elevation width of applicable elevation; or (B) 400 square feet |
Location Requirements | N/A | Wall/Awning signs shall provide a minimum separation of 50 feet from monument signs on the same lot | Wall/Awning signs shall provide a minimum separation of 50 feet from monument signs on the same lot | Wall/Awning signs shall provide a minimum separation of 50 feet from monument signs on the same lot | Wall/Awning signs shall provide a minimum separation of 50 feet from monument signs on the same lot |
Table Notes: | (4) Each separate wall/awning sign will be counted against the maximum cumulative number of signs allowed | ||||
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
WINDOW SIGN | |||||
Window Sign | - | - | ‚ | ‚ | ‚ |
Maximun Number Allowed (5) | N/A | N/A | 2 per public entrance | 2 per public entrance | 2 per public entrance |
Maximum Sign Surface Area | N/A | N/A | 30% of the window surface area | 30% of the window surface area | 30% of the window surface area |
Table Notes: | (5) Window signs that are 10 square feet or less in surface area will not be counted against the maximum cumulative number of signs allowed | ||||
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
YARD SIGN | |||||
Yard Sign | ‚ | ‚ | ‚ | ‚ | ‚ |
Maximum Number Allowed | 2 per lot | 2 per lot | 2 per lot | 2 per lot | 2 per lot |
Maximum Surface Area per Sign | 6 square feet | 16 square feet | 16 square feet | 6 square feet | 16 square feet |
Minimum Setback from Front Lot Lines, Rear Lot Lines, and Rights-of-Way | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet |
Minimum Setback from Side Lot Lines | 2 feet | 2 feet | 2 feet | 2 feet | 2 feet |
Maximum Height from Grade Level to Sign Top Edge | 4 feet | 6 feet | 6 feet | 4 feet | 6 feet |
Maximum Display Period | 40 calendar days (6) | 40 calendar days (6) | 40 calendar days (6) | 40 calendar days (6) | 40 calendar days (6) |
Allowed Illumination | None | None | None | None | None |
(Ord. 58-2025. Passed 6-24-25.)
Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards Sign Type/Name of Standard | |||||
∙ = Allowed with Sign Permit ‚ = Allowed without Sign Permit - = Not Allowed | |||||
R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, PUD Zones | PF Zone | C-1, C-2, C-3 Zones | DWTN District | I-1, I-M Zones | |
Table Notes: (1) Signs that are allowed without a sign permit will not be counted against the maximum cumulative number of signs allowed. (2) This standard for maximum height from grade level shall not apply to vehicular use area signs that are installed above a passable pathway (by pedestrians and/or vehicles). (3) This standard for minimum height from grade level shall only apply to vehicular use area signs that are installed above a passable pathway (by pedestrians and/or vehicles). (4) Each separate wall/awning sign will be counted against the maximum cumulative number of signs allowed. (5) Window signs that are 10 square feet or less in surface area will not be counted against the maximum cumulative number of signs allowed. (6) Yard signs shall be removed from the lot at the end of the allowable display period or within seven (7) calendar days of the completion of the project, election, sale, or lease or event, whichever occurs first. | - | - | |||
(c) Temporary Signs.
(1) In nonresidential zones, yard signs must include the date (day, month, and year) that the sign is installed, legibly displayed on the sign or sign supports.
(2) Flags and/or banners shall not be hung across any public right-of-way unless the Mayor and the Zoning Administrator approve upon a finding that such placement will not be detrimental to public safety. If approved, such flags and/or banners may only be installed for a period of up to thirty-five (35) days.
(3) In addition to other signs allowed per this Chapter 1116, lots that are subject to active construction related to an approved site plan review (per Section 1123.01 - Site Plan Review) are allowed one temporary construction sign along each separate right-of-way abutting the subject lot. Such temporary sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area, shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height, and shall not be displayed for a duration longer than eighteen (18) months or until a final certificate of occupancy is issued, whichever is sooner.
(4) A temporary sign may be displayed continuously for up to forty (40) days. Such sign shall be removed from the lot at the end of the allowable display period, or within seven (7) calendar days of the completion of the project, election, sale, lease or event, whichever occurs first.
(5) A temporary identification sign may displayed for up to 120 days with approval of a permanent sign application by the Architectural Review Board.
(d) Electronic Message Center Signs. Electronic message center signs are allowed subject to the following:
(1) Electronic message center signs are allowed only on lots with public and institutional uses within the PF Zone as part of an allowed sign (per Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards). For the purposes of this provision, public and institutional uses include the following, as defined in this Title: civic use, school - primary/secondary, and school - post-secondary.
(2) Individual messages within an electronic message center sign must be displayed for a duration of at least eight (8) seconds.
(3) Images, copy, logos, accent lines, and all other elements within a message displayed on an electronic message center sign must be static. Transitions between separate messages must be instantaneous without the use of transition effects such as wipes, fades, and similar effects that give the appearance of motion.
(4) Electronic message center signs must be equipped with a light-sensing device that automatically adjusts the brightness of the sign to meet the requirements of Section 1116.05 - Signage Illumination, when ambient light conditions change.
(5) Electronic message center signs must be equipped with a feature that automatically turns the sign off or changes the sign to an all-black display in the event of damage or malfunction.
(e) Manual Changeable Copy Signs. Manual changeable copy signs are allowed subject to the following:
(1) Manual changeable copy signs are allowed only with nonresidential zones as part of an allowed sign (per Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards).
(f) Signs in Clear Sight Triangles. Signage within a clear sight triangle, as may be required per 1114.05 - Clear Sight Triangle, is prohibited or limited per the following:
(1) Ground-mounted signs must not be placed within a clear sight triangle.
(2) Where an existing building is within a clear sight triangle, building-mounted signs may only be placed on those portions of the building that are within the clear sight triangle if they do not project from the building within the vertical range between two (2) feet above grade level and eight (8) feet above grade level.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1116.04 PROHIBITED AND NUISANCE SIGNS.
(a) Prohibited Signs. The following types of signs or features of signs are prohibited:
(1) Roof signs;
(2) Portable electronic message center signs;
(3) Pole signs;
(4) Pylon signs;
(5) Off-premises signs;
(6) Inflatable, windblown, and/or air-activated signs;
(7) Feather signs and pennant signs;
(8) Any sign not expressly permitted by this Chapter;
(9) Signs containing profane words, images of obscene character, or words and/or images that are harmful to juveniles, as defined by the Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.01(E) and (F);
(10) Signs that are the principal use of a lot;
(11) Signs that obstruct any doorway, fire escape, or window;
(12) Signs located on utility poles;
(13) Signs located on trees;
(14) Signs on trailers that are directly viewable from a public right-of-way and that are parked for a period exceeding forty-eight (48) hours;
(15) Signs made of materials that are not durable in inclement weather, including but not limited to paper and cardboard; and
(16) Signs with electronic or mechanical components that cause radio, radar, or television interference.
(b) Nuisance Signs. Nuisance signs are identified as follows and are subject to the following provisions:
(1) Any sign or other object placed, displayed, erected, constructed, reconstructed, altered, or permitted to remain on any premises in violation of this Code or the Building Code, or without legal authorization, is hereby declared to constitute a nuisance.
(2) In addition to any penalty provided in the Twinsburg Codified Ordinances for such violation, the nuisance may be abated in the manner provided by the statutes of Ohio, in the manner provided in the Codified Ordinances of Twinsburg, or in the manner provided by Section 1116.06 - Removal of Signs. The procedural requirements of these alternative abatement remedies shall not be cumulative. Only the procedures of the abatement remedy implemented shall be required.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1116.05 SIGNAGE ILLUMINATION.
(a) Applicability. Except where illumination on a given type of sign is prohibited or restricted per Table 1116.03-B: Comprehensive Sign Permissions and Design Standards, the provisions of this Section 1116.05 shall regulate the illumination of signs, including electronic message center signs.
(b) Types of Illumination Identified. Where illumination is allowed, the following shall apply:
(1) Direct illumination. Direct illumination shall be accomplished by directing a shielded external light source to a given sign. Such a light source must have a white color.
(2) External Illumination. External illumination shall be accomplished by applying an unconcealed light source, such as neon tubes, to letters, numbers, symbols, logos, and accent lines, or forming the illumination in a manner that portrays letters, numbers, symbols, logos, and accent lines.
(3) Internal illumination. Internal illumination shall be accomplished by allowing light only through letters, numbers, symbols, logos, and accent lines. Such a light source may not utilize more than two (2) colors. The background of an internally illuminated sign must remain opaque.
(4) Shadow illumination. Shadow illumination shall be accomplished by back-lighting letters, numbers, symbols, logos, and accent lines with a concealed light source.
(c) Prohibited Illumination. The following types or features of illumination are prohibited:
(1) No temporary sign allowed by this Chapter may be illuminated.
(2) Open flames as a source of illumination are prohibited.
(3) Flashing signs and flashing lights are prohibited.
(4) Storefront and window track/module lighting systems are prohibited
(d) Maximum Illumination Level. The brightness level for signage illumination shall not exceed 0.3 foot candles above ambient light levels, as measured per Section 1104.02 - General Measurement Methodologies.
(e) Shielding Required. The light source of any sign using direct illumination must be shielded from view from any public right-of-way and from any dwelling unit.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1116.06 REMOVAL OF SIGNS.
(a) Authorization to Order Sign Removal. The Zoning Administrator is hereby authorized to order the removal or maintenance of any sign that constitutes a nuisance.
(b) Serving Notice of Order. Any order to remove or repair and maintain a nuisance sign must be served to the owner or person in possession of the sign by personal or certified mail service, provided that, where service has been refused, no further service shall be required. The time for compliance shall commence from the date such service is accepted or refused, as recorded in the records of the Building Department.
(c) Compliance Timelines.
(1) Whenever the removal or maintenance of a permanent sign has been ordered and served, the person served must comply with such order within fourteen (14) days of the service.
(2) Whenever the removal or maintenance of a temporary sign has been ordered and served, the person served must comply with such order within forty-eight (48) hours of the service.
(3) Whenever removal or maintenance of a sign is ordered, served, and not complied with in the required timeline, the Zoning Administrator may thereafter cause the removal or maintenance of such sign at the expense of the owner of the sign or the owner of the lot on whose premises it was erected, affixed, or attached. Such person shall be individually and separately liable for the expense incurred in the removal or maintenance of such sign.
(d) Specifications of Removal. An order to remove a sign shall include the complete and total removal of the sign face, enclosing frame, and all sign supporting members and based, unless otherwise explicitly ordered.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1117.01 PURPOSE AND APPLICABILITY.
(1) To safeguard historic buildings, structures, and sites that are listed on the Twinsburg Local Landmarks List, as approved by the City Council;
(2) To seek alternatives to demolition or incompatible alterations within the city to listed properties before such acts are performed; and
(3) To encourage historic preservation best practices of listed properties.
(b) Applicability.
(1) The provisions of Chapter 1117 shall apply to all lots, buildings, structures, and sites that are listed on the Twinsburg Local Landmarks List, as approved by the City Council.
(2) No building or other structure on the Twinsburg Local Landmarks List - or building or other structure immediately adjacent thereto - shall be erected, altered in exterior construction or appearance, enlarged, moved, or demolished unless a certificate of appropriateness for such action (per Section 1125.02 - Certificate of Appropriateness) is issued in compliance with the provisions of this Chapter.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1117.02 HISTORIC PRESERVATION GUIDELINES.
(a) In the review of applications for a certificate of appropriateness (per Section 1125.02 - Certificate of Appropriateness), the Architectural Review Board must interpret and apply the guidelines provided herein.
(b) Preservation of Features. The distinguishing original qualities or character of an historically significant feature shall not be destroyed. Removal or alteration of historic material or distinctive architectural features shall be avoided.
(c) Replacement of Features. If replacement of architectural features on a historically significant property cannot be avoided (as confirmed by the Architectural Review Board), the proposed replacement material shall closely match the character-defining material in composition, design, color, texture, and other visual qualities.
(d) Compatibility in Design. All buildings, structures, and sites shall be recognized as products of their own time. Alterations, additions, and new development shall be compatible in size, scale, color, material, and character with the design of historically significant properties - both the subject property and those in proximity to the subject property. However, uniformity for the sake of uniformity shall not be required. Prevailing setbacks and orientations of structures to streets and sidewalks shall also be respected.
(e) Accessory Structures. Fences, walkways, benches, streetlights, and other accessory structures located on properties listed on the Twinsburg Local Landmarks List, or on properties immediately adjacent thereto shall be compatible in design with the character of such properties.
(f) Signs. In addition to the requirements of Chapter 1116 - Signs, signs located on properties listed on the Twinsburg Local Landmarks List, or on properties immediately adjacent thereto shall be compatible in color, material, placement, and character with the architectural style of such properties.
(g) Illumination. Internally illuminated signs shall not be permitted on properties listed on the Twinsburg Local Landmarks List, or on properties immediately adjacent thereto.
(h) Sign Types. Although no sign types are specifically prohibited by regulations of this Section, certain sign types may be deemed incompatible upon review by the Architectural Review Board with the above guidelines.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.01 PURPOSE AND APPLICABILITY.
(a) Purpose. The design standards prescribed herein are intended to be the minimum standards which, when applied with the professional skills, will produce attractive and harmonious development, convenient and safe streets, and economical layouts for development of land in the city. These standards are further intended to establish infrastructure and other construction that is optimally functional and durable, resulting in minimum layouts for maintenance and repair dollars in the future.
(b) Adopted Standard Details.
(1) There is hereby adopted, as part of the subdivision regulations of the municipality of Twinsburg, Ohio, "General Notes and Standard Construction Drawings for the City of Twinsburg," to be prepared, amended, and updated from time to time by the City Engineer.
(2) The adopted and current version of this document shall govern and establish minimum standards on construction within public right-of-way or areas intended to be dedicated in the future to the public, whether within subdivisions or elsewhere.
(3) The City Engineer is hereby granted and vested with the authority to enforce such standards or technical engineering data and construction techniques setting forth the same in the "General Notes and Standard Construction Drawings for the City of Twinsburg" which is made a part hereof by this reference as if reappearing in whole in this enactment.
(4) A copy of the "General Notes and Standard Construction Drawings for the City of Twinsburg" shall be placed on file in the office of the Clerk of the City Council after review and approval by the Mayor and City Council. This document may be accessed online at https://www.mytwinsburg.com/DocumentCenter.
(c) Land Use and Thoroughfare Plan. The location, layout, and density of all proposed subdivisions shall conform to the Land Use and Thoroughfare Plan of current adoption by the City. (Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.02 PHYSICAL CONDITIONS.
(a) Natural Land Use. Subdivisions shall be planned to take advantage of the topography of the land to economize in the construction of drainage facilities, to reduce the amount of grading, and to minimize the destruction of trees and topsoil.
(b) Flood Hazards. If any portion of the land within the subdivision is subject to flooding or other hazards, due consideration shall be given to such conditions in the design of the subdivision. Land subject to flooding and land otherwise uninhabitable shall not be platted for residential occupancy nor for other uses that may increase danger to health, life, or property, or that may aggravate the flood hazard.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.03 BLOCKS.
(a) Residential Blocks. The lengths, widths, and shapes of blocks will be determined with due regard to:
(1) Provisions for adequate building sites suitable for the special needs of the type of use contemplated.
(2) Zoning requirements as to lot size and dimensions.
(3) Need for convenient access, circulation, control, and safety of street traffic.
(4) Limitations and opportunities of topography.
(b) Block Lengths. The longest dimension of a residential block shall not exceed 1,500 feet or be less than 800 feet.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.04 LOTS.
(a) Lot Size. A lot's size, width, depth, public street frontage, and minimum building setback lines shall conform to the existing zoning code.
(b) Lot Depth. No lot depth for a lot in a major subdivision shall exceed 3.5 times the lot width.
(c) Frontage. Lots shall not be laid out so that they have frontage on more than one street except:
(1) Where the lots are adjacent to the intersection of two (2) streets.
(2) Where it is necessary to separate residential lots from arterial or collector streets.
(3) Where double frontage lots are created adjacent to arterial or collector streets, a reserve strip along the major arterial thoroughfares shall have a minimum twenty (20)-foot-wide landscape easement to be maintained by the HOA. The plat shall state that there is no right of access across such reserve strip. The Planning Commission may require a landscape buffer including a mound or a wall.
(d) Corner Lots. Corner lots that abut a collector or arterial with any other street shall have a minimum setback as shown in Table 1113.02-A: Residential Zones Dimensional Standards, Table 1113.02-B: Commercial and Public Zones Dimensional Standards, Table 1113.02-C: Industrial Zones Dimensional Standards, as applicable, on both streets.
(e) Lot Lines.
(1) Side lot lines shall be substantially at right angles or radial to street lines. Lot lines shall follow municipal, township, and county boundary lines rather than cross them where possible.
(2) If there is a defined rear lot line, that line shall be used for the rear setback.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.05 DESIGN ELEMENTS.
(a) Streetlights. The subdivider shall install and pay for all street lighting facilities, including poles, fixtures, underground wiring, and all connection costs, all of which shall be done in accordance the applicable franchise agreement with the Ohio Edison Company. The subdivider shall pay directly to Ohio Edison or shall promptly reimburse the City of Twinsburg for all charges related to the connection of street light service including charges for service tap in or start up. Upon acceptance of dedication of street right-of-way, such underground lighting facilities shall become the property of the Ohio Edison Company and shall be repaired and maintained by them. There shall be no waiver of this requirement unless such modifications have been first considered and approved by the Planning Commission.
(b) Street Signs.
(1) A developer shall provide for the installation of street signs such as, but not limited to, stop signs, no parking signs, and speed signs. The street signs shall conform to the specifications of the Municipality, and the developer shall pay the Municipality to install such signs at all intersecting streets in the subdivision.
(2) The developer shall designate a primary entry into the subdivision. A sign which conforms with the signage regulations of the City shall be provided at this entry on property to be designated as recorded common property. The signage area shall be appropriately landscaped by the developer and shall be permanently maintained by the homeowner association.
(c) Street Trees. Street trees within the right of way shall be provided as required in the improvement schedule. Trees required by this section shall be installed by the City at the cost of the Developer. Funds for the installation of trees shall be deposited with the City after approval of the final plat and before commencement of the project. The amount deposited by the Developer shall be the City's cost for all required trees and installation.
(d) Planting Screens or Fences. The Planning Commission may require and permit planting screens or fences where reverse frontage lots abut a major arterial street provided that such planting screens or fences shall not constitute a safety hazard. A plan of proposed planting screens or fences shall be submitted for approval with the final plat.
(e) Utility Facilities. All Utility Facilities, including water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, communications facilities, and gas line facilities, but not necessarily limited thereto, shall be installed and paid for by the subdivider and shall be constructed underground in accordance with the Subdivision General Notes and Standard Detail of the City of Twinsburg, Ohio or in accordance with the construction standards of the purveyor. The subdivider shall install new systems or, where appropriate, connect onto existing systems which are deemed adequate by the City Engineer to handle the additional demands and volume which will result from the proposed subdivision. Storm water easements shall be graded to final grade and maintained by the developer until transfer of the site. The subdivider, prior to the submission of the preliminary plan, must receive prior written approval for the extension or installation of said central water system and central sanitary sewer system from the City Engineer, and the public Utility Facilities involved. There shall be no deviation or waiver here from unless the same shall have been first considered by the Planning Commission and authorized by the enactment of City Council.
(f) Monuments. A monument shall be accurately placed at each corner and at changes in direction of the boundary, at each street intersection, at points of curves of streets, and at intermediate points as may be required by the City Engineer. The monuments shall be as shown on the Standard Details of the Municipality of Twinsburg, Ohio. The top of the monuments shall be set at the finished grade upon the completion of the grading of the streets and lots. Iron pins shall be set at all lot corners.
(g) Oversize And/or Off-site Improvements. Oversize and/or off-site extensions of Utility Facilities, pavements, and other improvements shall be designed and constructed to facilitate the orderly development of nearby land which is an integral part of the neighborhood service or drainage area. Where the City Engineer determines that improvements in excess of the size needed to serve the proposed subdivision are necessary in order to facilitate orderly development, or where they determine that offsite improvements are necessary to facilitate orderly development of the area, the subdivider (at the subdivider's cost) shall install all improvements required to serve their subdivision plus the additional oversize and/or off-site improvements required. The subdivider may contract with adjacent property owners and/or subdividers of adjacent land for reimbursement of the oversize and/or off-site improvements required. Such improvements shall be available for connections by individual property owners and/or subdividers of adjoining land.
(h) Standards for Utility Easements. For utility lines serving a subdivision, easements as set forth hereunder shall be provided. Such easements may be considered as part of the lot adjoining it in computing the lot area, but shall be kept clear of structures, trees, or other improvements which would interfere with installation or maintenance of utility lines or related appurtenances.
(1) Sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and water lines may be located within the road right-of-way but shall be outside of the pavement. In the alternative, easements may be shown on the preliminary and final plats parallel and contiguous to the road right-of-way. Such easements shall have a minimum width of ten (10) feet. Easements may also be shown on the preliminary and final plats parallel and contiguous to side and rear lot lines, whenever feasible. Such easements shall have a minimum width of twenty (20) feet.
(2) Electric power, natural gas, cable television, and telephone lines shall be located outside of the road right-of-way. Easements for such purposes shall be shown on the preliminary and final plats parallel and contiguous to the road right-of-way. Such easements shall have a minimum width of twelve (12) feet. Easements may also be shown on the preliminary and final plats parallel and contiguous to side and rear lot lines. Such easements shall have a minimum width of twenty (20) feet. Utility lines shall be placed underground.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.06 CLASSIFICATION OF STREETS AND PRIVATE DRIVEWAYS.
(b) Interstate Highways, Freeways, and Expressways. Interstate highways, freeways, and expressways shall be planned for continuation of major interstate and interstate high speed traffic of large volumes between areas within and outside of the state. All locations of such highways and intersections shall be by Federal, State, and City agreement.
(c) Arterial Streets. Arterial streets shall be planned to facilitate traffic movement between points of heavy traffic generation and from one section of the community to another. They shall contain as few intersections with minor streets as possible. Such thoroughfares should traverse the community and should be spaced approximately one mile apart.
(d) Collector Streets. Collector streets shall provide a traffic route from local streets to arterial streets. Collector streets normally contain a relatively large number of intersections with local streets and few intersections with arterial streets. These streets should be spaced at least one-fourth (1/4th) mile apart.
(e) Local Streets. Local streets shall provide direct and full access to each abutting lot, site, or structure, and shall be laid out so that their full use by through traffic will be discouraged. Local streets shall typically connect to other local streets, collector streets, or arterial streets.
(f) Cul-de-sac or Dead-end Streets. Cul-de-sac and dead-end streets shall be constructed with a cul-de-sac or turn-around area and be designed to provide direct and full access to each abutting lot, site, or structure. The cul-de-sacs or dead-end streets shall be laid out to accommodate only those lots, sites, and structures fronting the street and cul-de-sac.
(g) Six-unit Drives (Private). Six-unit drives may be in general private driveways to service up to six (6) building sites.
(h) Two-unit Drive (Private). Two-unit drives shall be in general private driveways to service building sites for two (2) lots, two (2) buildings sites, and/or structures containing two (2) units or double occupancy or use.
(i) Single-unit Drives (Private). Single-unit drives shall be in general private driveways to service building sites for one (1) lot, one (1) building site, and/or single structures designed for the purpose of a single occupant or use.
(j) Streets, Drives, and Driveway Right-of-way Width for Public and Private Use. Minimum permanent unobstructed public or private right of way easement or common area width for street, drive, and driveway areas for street and drive pavements, curbs, tree lawns, sidewalks, sewers, water lines, driveway aprons, and Utility Facilities shall conform to the following minimum widths:
(1) Interstate highways, freeways and expressways: by agreement with the City.
(2) Arterial and collector streets: eighty (80) feet.
(3) Local streets and drives, loop streets and drives, and dead-end streets and drives: sixty (60) feet.
(4) Private access easements including maintenance requirements for driveways that serve two (2) or more units are required.
(k) Utility Easements. Easements of minimum width of twelve (12) feet shall be provided for:
(1) Each side of rights-of-way; and
(2) Easements of common areas for private streets and drives proposed for access to sites proposed for lots and/or structures for three (3) or more units.
(l) Half Streets and Drives. Half streets and drives, or streets or drives with reduced right-of-way, easement width, or common area width for pavements, curbs, walks, tree lawns, and Utility Facilities are prohibited.
(m) Alleys. The creation of alleys within a platted subdivision are prohibited.
(n) Corner Radii. Property lines, easement lines and/or common area lines, pavements, and curbs at street and drive intersections shall be rounded with minimum radii as follows:
(1) Interstate highways, freeways, and expressways: by agreement with the City.
(2) Arterial streets shall have a minimum corner radius of fifty (50) feet at the property line and fifty (50) feet at the pavement curb.
(3) Collector streets shall have a minimum corner radius of thirty (30) feet at the property line and thirty (30) feet at the pavement curb.
(4) Residential local, loop, dead-end, and cul-de-sac streets shall have a minimum corner radius of twenty-five (25) feet at the property line and twenty-five (25) feet at the pavement curb.
(5) Industrial local, loop, dead-end, and cul-de-sac streets shall have a minimum corner radius of thirty (30) feet at the property line and thirty (30) feet at the pavement curb.
(6) The required apron width of one-, two-, and six-unit drive aprons are established in Table 1118.06-A: Drive Width and Apron Standards.
Type of Development or Zone | Width at Walkway | Width at Curb |
Residential Detached Garage | 10 feet | 16 feet |
Residential Attached Garage | 16 feet | 22 feet |
Commercial Zones | 24 feet | 34 feet |
Industrial Zones | 24 feet | 34 feet |
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.07 SIDEWALKS, DRIVEWAYS AND TRAILS.
(a) Sidewalks. Sidewalks shall be provided as specified in Table 1118.14-A: Schedule of Required Subdivision Improvements and as follows:
(1) Sidewalks in residential subdivisions must be made of concrete and must be 4 inches thick with the thickness increased to six (6) inches where the sidewalk is crossed by a driveway. In industrial and commercial areas, the thickness of the sidewalk concrete shall be increased to eight (8) inches where the sidewalks are crossed by a driveway. (See Standard City of Twinsburg Detail.)
(2) In subdivisions to be constructed and improved or which are in the process of improvement and development, and before bonds shall be released, sidewalks shall be installed by the developer/builder abutting all platted lots which abut a paved street whether a structure has been constructed upon the lot or not.
(3) The City has the right to have a public sidewalk installed within 270 days after the public streets are installed, not including the final course.
(4) On corner lots, sidewalks shall be provided along both street frontages and shall be extended to the edge of the street pavement with ADA-compliant wheelchair access.
(b) Driveways. The required driveway width in residential subdivisions must be as specified in Table 1118.06-A: Drive Width and Apron Standards.
(c) Trails. Trails are subject to the following standards:
(1) The design must be ADA compliant with a surface material as approved by the City Engineer;
(2) The minimum width of a trail is eight (8) feet; and
(3) Proper drainage must be provided and approved by the City Engineer.
(d) Small Construction Sites (Individual Lots).
(1) Prior to any excavation for foundation or footers, the developer shall saw cut a curb in the driveway area and install a construction drive entrance and other site controls per the Rainwater and Land Development manual: Ohio's standards for stormwater management, land development, and urban stream protection.
(2) Further, the berm area of the public right-of-way shall be seeded and maintained by the developer/builder until such time as a dwelling or other structure is occupied, and thereafter the same shall be the obligation of the occupant of said structure. Failure to comply with any provision of this enactment will be considered a public nuisance, and the City may take legal action.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.08 PAVEMENT WIDTHS, GRADES, AND DESIGN SPEED.
(a) Pavements. The minimum pavement standards as indicated in the Standards Details shall be required on all City Streets. Higher pavement standards and/or greater widths indicated herein may be required by the Planning Commission and/or City Engineer to adequately provide for unusual soil conditions, or where extraordinary traffic volumes or loads indicate need.
(b) Comprehensive Table. Table 1118.08-A: Roadway Dimensional Standards provides the standards for minimum pavement widths as measured from back of curb to back of curb when curb is required, requirement of curb, percentage of grade, and design speed (not necessarily the legal or posted speed limit) shall be used for all designs of streets and drives for public or private development.
Type of Street | Pavement Width | Curb Required | Max. % of Grade | Min. % of Grade | Design Speed |
Interstate Highways, Freeways, Expressways | (1) | None | (1) | (1) | 50-70 mph |
Arterial Street: 2-Lane | 33 feet | Yes | 5% | 0.5% | 50 mph |
Arterial Street: 4-Lane | 52 feet | Yes | 5% | 0.5% | 50 mph |
Collector Street: Residential Zone | 28 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 40 mph |
Collector Street: Industrial Zone | 31 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 40 mph |
Collector Street: Commercial Zone | 31 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 40 mph |
Local Street: Residential Zone | 26 feet | Yes | 10% | 0.5% | 35 mph |
Local Street: Industrial Zone | 31 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 35 mph |
Local Street: Commercial Zone | 28 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 35 mph |
Loop Street: Residential Zone | 26 feet | Yes | 10% | 0.5% | 30 mph |
Loop Street: Industrial Zone | 31 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 30 mph |
Loop Street: Commercial Zone | 28 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 30 mph |
Type of Street | Pavement Width | Curb Required | Max. % of Grade | Min. % of Grade | Design Speed |
Cul-de-sac or Dead-End Street: Residential Zone | 26 feet | Yes | 10% | 0.5% | 30 mph |
Cul-de-sac or Dead-End Street: Industrial Zone | 31 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 30 mph |
Cul-de-sac or Dead-End Street: Commercial Zone | 28 feet | Yes | 7% | 0.5% | 30 mph |
6-Unit Drive (Private): Residential Zone | 20 feet | No | 8% | 0.5% | 25 mph |
2-Unit Drive (Private): Residential Zone | 16 feet | No | 8% | 0.5% | 20 mph |
2-Unit Drive (Private): Industrial Zone | 24 feet | No | 6% | 0.5% | 20 mph |
2-Unit Drive (Private): Commercial Zone | 24 feet | No | 6% | 0.5% | 20 mph |
1-Unit Drive (Private): Residential Detached Garage | 10 feet | No | 10% | 0.4% | 10 mph |
1-Unit Drive (Private): Residential Attached Garage | 16 feet | No | 10% | 0.4% | 10 mph |
1-Unit Drive (Private): Industrial Zone | 24 feet | No | 6% | 0.4% | 10 mph |
1-Unit Drive (Private): Commercial Zone | 24 feet | No | 6% | 0.4% | 10 mph |
Table Notes: (1) These standards shall be set per agreement with the State of Ohio. Where applicable, sound barriers shall be permitted | |||||
(c) Cul De Sac Streets and Six Unit Private Drives. Table 1118.08-B: Select Cul-de-sac and 6-Unit Drive Standards provides the standards for minimum lengths, maximum lots served, and minimum curb diameter of cul-de-sac streets and six (6)-unit private drives.
Street Classification | Maximum Street Length (1) | Maximum Lots Served | Minimum Curb Distance (face to face) |
Cul-de-sac: Residential Zone | 1,200 feet | 28 lots | 106 feet |
Cul-de-sac: Commercial Zone | 1,200 feet | 25 lots | 106 feet |
6-Unit Private Drive: Residential Zone | 200 feet | 6 lots | 75 feet |
Table Notes: (1) Cul-de-sac streets shall be measured from the center point of the cul-de-sac to the center line intersection with the connecting through roadway. Multiple cul-de-sacs sharing a single through road connection shall be considered one cul-de-sac street. | |||
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.09 DRAINAGE REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Drainage. A drainage system shall be designed and constructed by the subdivider to provide for the proper drainage of the surface water of the subdivision and the drainage area of which it is a part. To this end the subdivision shall be graded as follows:
(1) Prior to the start of any construction (houses or streets), the subdivider shall furnish a site plan showing by use of arrows how they propose to surface drain each lot. This information shall also be shown on the street plan and profile sheets.
(2) The subdivider shall submit topographic maps showing the area to be drained with calculations prepared by a registered civil engineer in determining the proposed storm water collection system. The maps shall be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer.
(b) Grading, Generally. The subdivider shall grade each subdivision to establish street block and lot grades in proper relation to each other and to existing topography as provided within this Section.
(c) Street Grading. The subdivider shall prepare a grading plan for streets along with street improvement details. The grading of the roadway shall extend the full width of the right-of-way. Planting strips shall be graded at a gradient of not less than two percent (2%) nor greater than three percent (3%) upward from the curb to the sidewalk or property line.
(d) Block Grading. Block grading shall be as follows:
(1) From a high point of the lot draining into the streets or from a drainageway;
(2) Parts of all lots draining to a natural waterway or drainage system along rear lot lines and a portion of all lots draining to the street; and
(3) Draining across rear or side lot lines provided that drainage onto adjoining properties shall be engineered by a professional engineer and inspected by the City.
(e) Lot Grading.
(1) Any open storm water draining course or basin which is adjacent to the rear, side, or front of a dwelling shall be a minimum of fifty (50) feet from the dwelling at the top bank of drainage course or basin and the slope shall be a minimum of four to one (4 to 1). This includes all drainage courses or basin, active and nonactive and if the Engineer requires slope protection, it shall be included.
(2) Lots shall be graded so that water drains away from each building at a minimum grade of one percent (1%) to a storm water swale.
(3) Surface storm water drainage swales shall have a minimum grade of one-half percent (0.5%) and shall be designed so that surface water will drain into a driveway, street gutter, storm sewer, drain inlet, or natural drainage course.
(4) The minimum grades of driveways shall be 0.4% and a maximum of ten percent (10%).
(f) Topsoil and Ground Cover. If grading results in the stripping of topsoil, the developer/builder shall uniformly spread new topsoil to a depth of two (2) inches over the lot or lots as grading is finished.
(g) Road Drainage System. The road drainage storm sewer system shall serve as the prime drainage system. It shall be designed to carry drainage from roadways, adjacent lands, and house stormwater. The City of Twinsburg uses the Summit County Drainage Manual Part II for technical guidance and design criteria.
(h) Off-road Drainage System. The design of the off-load drainage system shall include the watershed affecting the allotment and shall be extended to a watercourse adequate to receive the storm drainage, based on the requirements in Subsections (i), (j), and (k), below.
(i) Drainage Easements. Easements for drainage purposes shall be a minimum of twenty (20) feet in width. Where the watercourse is large, easement widths shall be increased as determined by the City Engineer.
(1) Easements for drainage purposes shall be staked out or be laid out on the ground before construction is started.
(2) In instances where the existing watercourse is well defined because of past storm drainage, the Planning Commission may require the subdivider to plat the lots to take advantage of the natural watercourse. Where it is not feasible to plat such lots, the subdivider is required to reconstruct the watercourse along sublot lines. Such reconstruction shall be piped in conduit and shall be completed to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
(j) Protection of Drainage Systems.
(1) All land adjacent to a watercourse or drainage facility, where the vegetation has been impacted or erosion control devices have left unsightly conditions, shall be restored and protected as directed by the City Engineer.
(2) In all cases, any drainage facility within the subdivision shall be in a stable condition, free from either erosion, sedimentation, and/or other debris.
(k) Pipe Policy. All pipes shall be installed as specified by the Subdivision General Notes and Standard Details of the Municipality of Twinsburg.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed 11-7-24.)
1118.10 STORMWATER DETENTION/RETENTION.
(a) Purpose. Storm water retention and/or detention shall be required for the prevention of accelerated flooding and stream channel erosion in conjunction with urban development. Developers and contractors must follow the Rainwater and Land Development manual, Ohio EPA construction permit requirements and NPDES permit requirements for stormwater, and Summit County Drainage Manual Part II. The purpose of this storm water detention and water quality is to:
(1) Permit commercial, industrial, and residential development without increasing the flooding of other lands;
(2) Limit and/or reduce the adverse impact on receiving streams, storm sewers, and other drainage facilities caused by accelerated runoff; and
(3) Provide a basis of design of storm drainage systems on lands above or below undeveloped areas which will preserve the rights and options of both contributing and receiving property owners and assure the long-term adequacy of storm drainage systems.
(b) Approval. The design and construction of stormwater management facilities shall require the review and approval of the City Engineer.
(c) Design Criteria. The design criteria requires that peak discharge flow be controlled in proportion to increased runoff volume. If development does not increase runoff volume, peak flows will not be required to be controlled. However, as development increases the runoff volume due to increased area of impervious surfaces, the criteria will be more stringent.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by electorate 11-7-24.)
(d) Allowable Stormwater Management Types. Acceptable post-construction stormwater management practices can be found in the Ohio Rainwater and Land Development manual. Infiltration practices (as listed in the most recent Ohio General Permit Authorization for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity, Table 4b) and/or other green infrastructure practices shall be required where feasible.
(Ord. 84-2025. Passed 11-12-25.)
(e) Work Sites. All project sites or development areas required to implement stormwater management practices and facilities shall at a minimum limit the peak rate of discharge from the project site or development area to the downstream receiving water course as follows:
(1) Stormwater management measures shall be required to maintain the post-development peak discharge at rates consistent with the critical storm method as described in the Ohio Rainwater Development manual; and
(2) Stormwater management facilities shall be designed to control the volume, timing, and rate of flows.
(f) Construction of Stormwater Detention/Retention Facilities.
(1) The construction of a stormwater management facility which impounds water and is made by constructing a dam or an embankment or by excavating a pit or dugout shall be designed and meet the requirements of the United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, Agricultural Handbook Number 590 as supplemented by the standards provided in Soil Conservation Service, State of Ohio Engineering Standard, Technical Guide Section IV, Pond (No.) - 378. The Ohio Dam Safety Laws, Title XV, Chapter 1521 of the Ohio Revised Code, shall be reviewed for compliance. The subdivider shall submit construction plans and details for the storm management facility.
(2) Calculations used in determining the capacity of storm sewers and design criteria for stormwater management facilities (e.g. depth, volume, spillway discharge, etc.) shall be prepared by a registered civil engineer. The subdivider shall also submit a topographic map showing the area served by the stormwater facility. Plans, maps and calculations shall be reviewed for approval by the City Engineer.
(g) Maintenance of Stormwater Detention/retention Facilities and Existing Ponds. Maintenance of storm water management facilities which impound water and existing ponds are the responsibility of the property owner. For the protection of life, health, and property of the public, the City has established the following minimum maintenance requirements for all facilities and ponds located within the City of Twinsburg:
(1) Ponds shall be inspected on an annual basis and after heavy rains to determine whether they are functioning properly or need minor repairs.
(2) Repairs to walls on the side slopes of the dam and any washes in the spillway are required immediately with suitable material and compact it thoroughly. Reseed or resod these areas and fertilize as needed.
(3) If the upstream face of the earth fill shows signs of serious washing or sloughing because of wave action, install protective devices such as booms or riprap.
(4) If there is evidence of seepage through or under the dam, consult an engineer at once so that proper corrective measures can be implemented before more serious damage.
(5) To maintain the protective plant cover on the dam and on earth spillway, mow it frequently and fertilize when needed.
(6) Keep trickle tubes, trash rocks, outlet structures, valves, and watering troughs free of trash at all times.
(7) Burrowing animals such as badgers, gophers, ground hogs, etc. can cause severe damage to dams or spillways. Such damage shall be immediately repaired. Recommended prevention measures include adding a heavy layer of sand or gravel on fill and installing poultry netting under seeded areas.
(8) Ponds shall be maintained as clean and unpolluted as possible. In ponds that have a significant growth of algae and other forms of plant life and become objectionable because of odors, mosquitoes breeding, etc., the property-owners shall initiate management practice to remove these problems. Top-feeding fish may be stocked in the ponds to address and/or reduce these concerns.
(9) The recommended minimum pond depth for this area of the country per the United States Department of Agriculture is six (6) - seven (7) feet. Existing ponds which have excessive sediment shall be dredged to maintain the minimum pond depth.
(10) If compliance with minimum maintenance requirements on stormwater facilities or existing ponds is not met, the City may enforce the penalties provided in Chapter 1127 - Enforcement, Penalties, and Remedies.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.11 EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL (STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION).
(a) Purpose. This section is adopted for the purpose of controlling the pollution of public waters by sediment from accelerated soil erosion and accelerated stormwater runoff caused by earth disturbing activities and land use changes connected with developing urban areas. The development of commercial, industrial, residential, recreational, public service, or other non-farm projects in the City of Twinsburg shall require a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan.
(b) General. The work shall consist of temporary and permanent control measures as shown on the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan and as directed by the City Engineer to control soil erosion and sedimentation through the use of straw or hay bales, sediment traps, sediment basins, silt fences, earth diversion dikes, check dams, storm drain inlet protection grasses, and mulches per the construction plan details of the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) in accordance with Standard Construction Drawing MC 11, and "Rainwater and Land Development Manual". The implementation of soil erosion and sediment control shall also conform to the requirement of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) under the NPDES Permit Program for the discharge of storm water from construction sites and the erosion and sediment control practices. If conflicts exist regarding the soil and sediment control practices, the most restrictive shall apply.
(c) Erosion Control Procedures. To control sediment pollution of watercourses, the owner or person responsible for the development shall use conservation planning and practices to maintain the level of conservation established by the following standards:
(1) Sediment control practices shall be functional throughout earth disturbing activity. Settling facilities, perimeter controls, and other practices intended to trap sediment shall be implemented as the first step of grading and within seven (7) days from the start of grubbing. They shall continue to function until the upslope development area is restabilized. Other erosion control items may be necessary due to environmental conditions.
(2) Disturbed areas shall have soil stabilization applied within seven (7) days if they are to remain dormant (undisturbed) for more than forty-five (45) days. For areas within fifty (50) feet of any live stream, soil stabilization practices shall be initiated within two (2) days on all inactive, disturbed areas. Permanent or temporary soil stabilization shall be applied to disturbed areas within seven (7) days after final grade is reached on any portion of the site. When seasonal conditions prohibit the application of temporary or permanent seeding, non-vegetative soil stabilization practices such as mulching and matting shall be used.
(3) Concentrated stormwater runoff from disturbed areas shall pass through a sediment settling facility. Sediment Basins shall be constructed in accordance with ODOT standard construction drawing MC-11 using free draining rock discharge control devices. The temporary sediment basin shall have volume capacities per the "Manual for Lotus Trap Efficiency, Template (TE) Developed by Summit SWCD-USDA Soil Conservation Service and Summit County Engineers" and the contractor shall periodically clean out sediment as needed.
(4) Sheet flow runoff from disturbed areas shall be intercepted by sediment barriers. Sediment barriers such as sediment fences, straw bale barriers, or diversion directing runoff to settling facilities shall protect adjacent properties and water resources from sediment transported by sheet flow.
(5) Streams, including beds and banks, shall be restabilized immediately after in-channel work is completed, interrupted, or stopped. Where in-channel work is necessary, precautions shall be taken to stabilize the work area during construction to minimize erosion. All ditches with grades over one and one-half percent (1.5%) should have ditch protection applied.
(6) Measures shall be taken to prevent soil transport onto surfaces where runoff is not checked by sediment controls, or onto public roads.
(7) Cut and fill slopes shall be designed and constructed in a manner which will minimize erosion. Consideration shall be given to the length and steepness of the slopes, soil type, upslope drainage area, groundwater conditions, and slope stabilization.
(8) Outfalls and construction of modified channels shall be designed and constructed to withstand the expected velocity of flow from a post-development, ten (10)-year frequency storm without eroding. Rock channel protection shall be in accordance with ODOT Item 601 and shall be provided at all outfalls.
(9) A permanent vegetative cover shall be established on disturbed areas not otherwise permanently stabilized. This shall include furnishing of all topsoil, seed, commercial fertilizer, mulch, and water and placing all materials on a prepared bed per ODOT Item 659. Permanent vegetation shall not be considered established until ground cover is achieved which, in the opinion of the City Engineer, provides adequate cover and is mature enough to control soil erosion satisfactorily and to survive adverse weather conditions.
(10) All temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control practices shall be inspected at least once every seven (7) days and within twenty-four (24) hours after any storm event greater than 0.5 inches of rain per twenty-four (24)-hour period. The owner's designated representative shall inspect the practice and direct maintenance and repairs by the contractor to assure continued performance of their intended function.
(11) Construction activities which cross environmental easement areas shall endeavor to preserve these areas with as little damage to the vegetation and soils as possible. The placement of earth or fill material shall be minimized. Heavy equipment working in the wetlands shall be placed on mats. All temporary fills shall be removed in their entirety. The vegetation and soils shall be restored to the conditions prior to construction activities.
The above standards are general guidelines and shall not limit the right of the City Engineer to impose additional, more stringent requirements, nor shall the standards limit the right of the City Engineer to waive individual requirements.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.12 RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE LAND.
(a) Applicability.
(1) All residential subdivisions of land shall provide for open space and recreational areas for the benefit of existing and future residents of the subdivision.
(2) Residential subdivisions of less than 5 lots shall be considered de minis, as shall individual infill developments, and therefore are not subject to the requirements of this Chapter.
(b) Character of Land.
(1) Dedications of land for open space and recreation shall be consistent with the land use plan contained within the Comprehensive plan.
(2) Every effort should be made to incorporate land within the community that possesses significant natural or scenic resources.
(3) Specific locations proposed for dedication of park and open space land shall be at locations deemed appropriate by the Planning Commission.
(4) Detention and retention ponds shall not be used towards the computation of required park and open space areas unless such areas provide accessible facilities and usable open space area for the enjoyment of the public or residents of the subdivision.
(c) Amount of Park Land Dedication. For final subdivisions, dedication of parkland shall be made in an amount equivalent to the community-wide level of service in the community. That need shall be determined by computing the anticipated need generated by the proposed development based on an equivalent of sixteen (16) acres of parks and recreation facilities per 1,000 population.
(d) Payment of Fees in Lieu of Dedication.
(1) If the amount of land required to be dedicated for public park purposed is less than three (3) acres, then the Planning Commission, at its sole discretion, may allow the subdivider to contribute funds in lieu of dedication.
(e) Parkland Acquisition Fund. All fees paid by a developer in lieu of dedication of park and open land space shall be paid to the City of Twinsburg and upon receipt shall be used specifically for public park and open space acquisition or improvements.
(f) General Design Criteria. Land set aside for park uses shall meet the following minimum standards:
(1) Land shall be contiguous, and efforts should be made to join open spaces with previously dedicated open space areas.
(2) If the developer is constructing recreation facilities on the dedicated or set-aside land, such facilities shall be constructed in accordance with the current standards established by the National Recreation and Park Association.
(g) Trails and Linear Parks. The Planning Commission may require as a condition of final plat approval the dedication and improvement of linear parks (trails, habitat corridors, or bikeways) which shall be credited toward all applicable park and open space land dedication requirements provided such linear parks involve the dedication of land at least twenty-five (25) feet in width and the linear park shall conform to any park and open space plan adopted by the City.
(h) Ownership. The Planning Commission will review and approve the form of ownership for any land utilized to meet the requirement of this Chapter. The Planning Commission shall consider the recommendations of the Parks Board in its review of ownership arrangements.
(i) Maintenance. The owner of the property will be responsible for the maintenance of all open space and parks unless dedicated to the City of Twinsburg.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.13 SUBDIVISION CONSTRUCTION PLANS AND DETAILS.
(a) Authorship and Ownership of Plans. Plans that include cross-sections, profiles, elevations, construction details, construction specifications, and cost estimates for all required improvements shall be prepared by a registered civil engineer. If approved by the City Engineer, such plans shall become the property of the Municipality.
(b) Hardcopies Required. Plans shall be prepared in ink on mylar film and shall be on standard size twenty-four inch by thirty-six inch (24" x 36") sheets. Should more than three (3) plan sheets be required, a title sheet shall also be included, on which shall be shown the allotment name, and a small-scale index map showing the names or letter designation of all proposed streets. The distance from the allotment line, or a street in said allotment, to a known landmark shall also be shown. A suitable title block shall be included on each sheet in the lower right corner.
(c) Plan Requirements. A complete application for a subdivision shall include the following information as may be applicable and as further described within this Section:
(1) A drainage study;
(2) Plans for bridges and/or culverts;
(3) Plans and profiles of streets;
(4) Construction details of special features;
(5) Details of alterations to nearby watercourses and proper permits; and
(6) Other applicable information, as described in this Section.
(d) Drainage Study Required. A complete drainage study with a computation sheet showing the pipes or sewer sizes shall be made subject to the following:
(1) The areas to be drained shall be shown on U.S.G.S. Topo maps, or other suitable maps obtained from the Summit County Ohio GIS. Each area shall be numbered or lettered and clearly outlined in the associated maps.
(2) The study shall be completed using the Ohio EPA Rainwater and Land Development manual and Summit County Drainage Design Manual Part II.
(3) Such a study shall be subject to approval of the City Engineer.
(4) The designer shall provide both stormwater detention and water quality for the fully developed site. The 100-year flood route shall be provided, and routing shall be shown through the site.
(5) All data used by the registered civil engineer to design the drainage ditches and to determine pipe sizes, structures, and water quality/detention facilities shall be included. The methods used in calculating, designing, and locating pipes and structures must be approved by the City Engineer.
(e) Required Bridges or Culverts. Should a structure larger than standard pipe size be required within the allotment, a bridge, or concrete box culvert may be designed, subject to approval of the City Engineer. Separate sheets for such structure shall be included in the plans, completely detailed, and indicating the highway loading for which it was designed. If the structure is a bridge, it shall be added to the national bridge inventory and provided to ODOT for inclusion in the municipal bridge inspection program.
(f) Street Plans and Profiles. Plans and profiles for streets shall be prepared according to the following:
(1) Plans and profiles of all streets shall be prepared on half-plan and half-profile sheets, with the street plan at the top of the sheet and the profile at the bottom. The horizontal scale shall be no greater than fifty (50) feet to the inch and the vertical scale shall be no greater than five (5) feet to the inch, or 1/10th of the horizontal scale.
(2) Plan sheets shall show the street centerline, centerline sectioning, street names or letter designation, sublot numbers, right-of-way lines, pavement lines, storm and sanitary sewer lines, water lines, inlets, manholes, culverts, gutter lines, guard rail, monuments, the point of curvature and the point of tangency of all horizontal curves, together with the curve data, appropriate notes covering construction, a title block, and north point.
(3) The profile portion of the sheet shall show the original ground profile at the centerline and at both building setback lines and the proposed profile grade with all vertical curve data including the calculated non-passing sight distance for all convex curves. The 100-year hydraulic grade line and basement elevations shall be plotted in profile.
(4) Streets shall be designed per the City of Twinsburg Standard Construction Notes and Drawings, AASHTO, ODOT L& D Manual, and Highway Access Manual as industry standards.
(5) Plans shall include the proposed water line, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, sewer holes, inlets, and culvert pipes with the locations, sizes, grades, and invert elevations of the two ends of each described.
(6) Stationing, corresponding to the plan stationing, shall be shown on the profile, and sea level elevations shall be indicated thereon. Location and description of the U.S.G.S. benchmark used shall be shown in a box, either on the plan or profile portion of the sheet.
(7) Plans shall include sections that show the right-of-way width, pavement width, berm width or curbs, location of gutters or curbs, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, water mains, inlets, guardrails, and other associated features. In such sections, the vertical scale may be exaggerated to show the thickness of each layer or roadway material, its kind, and its covering specifications. Such sections shall further include appropriate notes for each type of proposed material directly below the section drawing.
(g) Construction Details of Special Features. Construction details for all special types of construction not otherwise described in this Section shall be provided as part of the submitted plans.
(h) Adjacent Watercourses. Watercourses shall not be included within the street right-of-way unless as a culvert/bridge crossing or designed maintainable open ditch. Watercourses adjacent to the right-of-way or alongside lots shall be evaluated for stability and naturally reinforced if required to support development.
(i) Development with Frontage along Public Streets. Any development with frontage on an existing public-dedicated street shall be improved as required by City Council. In no case shall the improvement required be less than setting ditches back a standard distance from the existing pavement and back sloping the lots in accordance with the typical section.
(j) Submission of Plans. Two (2) complete sets of all construction plans and computations shall be submitted to the City Engineer for approval pursuant to Chapter 1126 - Subdivision Applications, along with a copy of the Stormwater Long-Term Maintenance Agreement. Electronic submission is also required for use by the City and shall be incorporated into the City's GIS database. In cases where only slight modification in the plans is found to be necessary, a copy will be marked and made available to the designing engineer for these corrections. If extensive modifications are required, the City Engineer may reject the plan and approval will not be given. If the City Engineer approves, the tracings shall be brought to the City Engineer for their signature. The design engineer will retain the original to add "as built" information. The design engineer shall submit five (5) copies of the signed plan for construction purposes to the City Engineer. Contractors must work from an approved, signed copy of the plans.
(k) Modifications of Plans.
(1) If it becomes necessary to modify the improvements as approved due to unforeseen circumstances, the subdivider shall inform the City Engineer in writing of the conditions requiring the modifications. Written authorization from the City Engineer to make the required modifications must be received by the subdivider before proceeding with the construction of any modified improvements.
(2) At the completion of the construction and before acceptance, the subdivider shall submit to the City Engineer all "as built" information on the plans as a permanent record, showing the locations, sizes, and elevations of all improvements as constructed.
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)
1118.14 REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS.
(a) Applicability. Improvements which are hereby required shall be designed, furnished, and installed by the subdivider in accordance with the provisions of these regulations and other regulations of the State and County.
(1) The improvement plan shall be approved by the Engineer.
(2) The project design engineer shall provide a detailed cost estimate and the City Engineer shall set the estimated cost for financial guarantees.
(3) Appropriate financial guarantees and construction agreement, as approved by the Engineer and Law Director, shall be submitted with the final plat for approval by Planning Commission and Council.
(4) No improvements shall be installed until all required documents, agreements, plans, drawings, and plats required in these regulations are approved as provided, and until the Mayor gives written confirmation of same to the developer.
(5) The subdivider shall provide and install, within the proposed subdivision, improvements not less than set forth in Table 1118.14-A: Schedule of Required Subdivision Improvements.
Type of Subdivision | |||
Type Of Improvement Required | Single-Family Residential Public Street | Multi-Family Residential | Industrial and Commercial Zones |
Drainage Grading | Streets and blocks | Streets and blocks | Streets, blocks and lots |
Storm System | Sewer system | Sewer system | Sewer system (1) |
Paved Streets | Required | Required | Required |
Curbs and Gutters | Required | Required | Required |
Sidewalks | Both sides | Both sides (1) | Both sides (1) |
Street Signs | Required | Required | Required |
Street Lights | Required | Required | Not required |
Street Trees | Required | Required (1) | Not required |
Sewer & Water | Central system (2) | Central system | Central system |
Public Sites | Required | Required (1) | Required (1) |
Monuments | Required | Required | Required |
Detention/Retention | Required | Required | Required |
Table Notes: (1) The Planning Commission may vary these required improvements upon recommendation from the City Engineer. (2) If a central system is not proposed, an approved permit from the Summit County Health Department for a septic tank is required. | |||
(Ord. 68-24. Passed by Electorate 11-7-24.)