West Cape May City Zoning Code
§ 27-17.5
Building Form Requirements in the C-3 Zone.
[Ord. No. 428-09 § 27-17.5]
Purpose: Recognizing the impact of the building design on a commercial district, these regulations seek to create a visually stimulating environment that contributes to economic success and livability. In addition to height, bulk and setback requirements, other building features affecting building design include storefront display windows, door and window openings, and roof shape.
Storefront buildings have traditionally been designed to reinforce the purpose of commercial activity. The rhythm of storefront openings along the street creates a powerful visual image that consumers recognize and associate with commercial activity.
a.
Percentage of glass for first floor storefront: 50% of the first floor façade.
b.
Second floor front facades are to be in vertical alignment with first floor front facades. Upper floor window openings on adjacent buildings shall be proportional and constant in order to reinforce a strong horizontal continuity along an entire block.
c.
Building design on buildings greater than fifty (50') feet wide shall have separate architectural features creating an image of separate storefronts no greater than thirty (30') feet each (bays).
d.
Roofs shall be flat, and shall have a decorative cornice or parapet, that can also serve as a buffer for rooftop mechanical equipment.
e.
Balconies facing the street on 2nd and 3rd floors shall be limited to twenty-four (24") in depth.