The provisions of this chapter shall pertain to all development (new and additions) in commercial zones. Regulations of this chapter shall be in addition to the conditional use permit procedures (if required). (Ord. 172-04, 3-2-2004)

A design review procedure is established in order to satisfy the recommendations of the general plan relating to the visual quality of the city. Such procedure is intended to assure that the general appearance of buildings and structures, and the improvement of land, shall contribute to an orderly and harmonious appearance and to safe, functionally efficient development, and to the stability of property values and the general welfare of the community. (Ord. 172-04, 3-2-2004)

   A.   Architectural Drawings And Site Development Plans: When required by this title, architectural drawings and/or site development plans shall be presented, drawn to scale, and shall show any and all of the following:

      1.   The building lot and dimensions.

      2.   Building locations.

      3.   Landscaping.

      4.   Existing trees and shrubbery.

      5.   Off street parking facilities.

      6.   Vehicular and pedestrian circulation.

      7.   Location and width of abutting streets.

      8.   Existing and proposed grades.

      9.   Surface drainage.

      10.   A north arrow.

      11.   Scale drawings of major exterior elevations and proposed exterior color scheme.

   B.   Review And Approval By Planning Commission: The planning commission shall determine if the proposed architectural and development plans submitted are consistent with this chapter and with the purpose and objectives of this title.

   C.   Considerations In Review Of Application: The planning commission and the zoning administrator shall consider the following matters, and others when applicable, in their review of proposals, and may refer the plans to one or more expert consultants if the planning commission deems it necessary:

      1.   Traffic Safety And Congestion: Considerations relating to traffic safety and traffic congestion:

         a.   The effect of the site development plan on traffic conditions on abutting streets.

         b.   The layout of the site with respect to locations and dimensions of vehicular and pedestrian entrances, exits, drives and walkways.

         c.   The arrangement and accuracy of off street parking facilities to prevent traffic congestion and compliance with the provisions of chapter 18 of this title.

         d.   The location, arrangement and dimension of truck loading and unloading facilities.

         e.   The circulation patterns within the boundaries of the development.

         f.   The surfacing and lighting of off street parking facilities.

      2.   Outdoor Advertising: Considerations relating to outdoor advertising:

         a.   Outdoor advertising shall comply with the provisions of this title, including chapter 17 of this title.

      3.   Landscaping: Considerations relating to landscaping:

         a.   The location, height and materials of walls, fences, hedges and screen plantings to ensure harmony with adjacent development, or to conceal storage areas, utility installations or other unsightly development.

         b.   The placement of ground covers, shrubs and trees.

         c.   The unnecessary destruction of existing healthy trees.

         d.   A layout plan for a sprinkling system.

   D.   Design Approval; Conditions: The planning commission or the zoning administrator, when authorized, shall decide all applications for design review. Design approval may include such conditions consistent with the considerations of this chapter as the planning commission or zoning administrator deem reasonable and necessary under the circumstances to carry out the intent of this chapter.

   E.   Notification Of Approval Or Denial: After review, the secretary of the planning commission shall prepare and mail or deliver to the applicant a formal statement thereof, stating the fact of the grant and any conditions attached thereto, or the fact of denial and the reason therefor. (Ord. 172-04, 3-2-2004)