Township of Pittsfield, MI Article XIII Site Design Standards

§ 40-13.01 Intent.

The intent of this article is to promote the public health, safety, and welfare and improve the site design and visual appearance of the Township by requiring consistent standards for such site elements as landscaping, waste receptacles, equipment screening, noise barriers, and lighting.

§ 40-13.02 Landscaping.

A. Landscape design purpose. Landscaping is the organization of outdoor space and shall be treated as a design element as important as building placement and vehicular circulation. The landscape plan shall be designed to achieve the following purposes:

(1) To preserve and enhance the identity or character of the site.

(2) To screen or filter views, buffer incompatible land uses, and blend inharmonious land uses.

(3) To integrate and unify various parts of the site.

(4) To articulate outdoor and architectural spaces.

(5) To improve the local environment by controlling soil erosion, moderating harsh or unpleasant sounds, removing air pollutants, controlling light trespass and reflection, moderating winds and the effects of climate, and promoting stormwater infiltration thereby helping to prevent flooding.

(6) To preserve and enhance existing environmental systems and wildlife habitat, including woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands.

B. When required. A separate, detailed landscape plan shall be submitted as part of the site plan review as set forth in Article IX.

(1) Plan requirements. The landscape plan shall be drawn to the same scale as required in Article IX, Site Plan Review. The landscape plan shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the information set forth in Article IX, and shall demonstrate that all requirements of this section are met.

(2) Composition.

(a) Plant materials shall be of generally acceptable varieties and species, free from insects and diseases, hardy to Washtenaw County, conform to the current minimum standards for nursery stock of the American Nursery and Landscape Association and shall have proof of any required governmental regulations and/or inspections. Artificial plant materials are prohibited.

(b) A mixture of live plant material, such as evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs, is required as a protective measure against insect and disease infestation. However, the mixture should be limited rather than a large quantity of different species to produce a more aesthetic, cohesive design and avoid a disorderly arrangement. One species may not exceed 20% of the total number of canopy trees, ornamental trees, coniferous trees, or shrubs.

(c) Native species of trees and shrubs shall constitute at least 50% of the total proposed plantings in accordance with the standards set forth in § 40-13.02B(8).

(d) All parts of a site that will not be covered by buildings or other structures, streets, driveways, parking lots, or other paved areas, or planting beds, shall be stabilized with grass or ground covers. Margins between sidewalks and streets, islands in parking lots, medians in boulevards, streets, or driveways, and similar areas shall be landscaped. The surfaces of islands and medians shall be stabilized with grass, ground covers and/or low-growing shrubs. Mulch should not be used as the only ground cover.

(3) Berms. Berms shall be constructed with slopes not to exceed a ratio of 1:4, with at least a two-foot-wide, generally flat top. If a slope greater than 1:4 is necessary, the surface shall be planted with a ground cover that is suitable for stabilizing the surface. Berms shall not exceed three feet in height unless utilized as a noise barrier. Berm height shall be measured from the nearest adjacent top of the curb (parking lot) or nearest adjacent crown of the road or the nearest adjacent finished first floor elevation, whichever is higher. Uniform heights and shapes should be avoided. Berm slopes shall be protected with sod, seed, or other form of natural ground cover. Berms shall be designed and constructed to appear as natural features in the landscape. Irrigation systems may be required on berms to ensure the survival of the plants on the berm.

(4) Walls and fences. Walls shall be constructed of masonry or stone. Fences for landscaping purposes shall be constructed of wood. Chain-link or other metal fences shall not be used for landscaping purposes. Walls and landscape fences shall be coordinated with the building's design and materials and with the character of the site.

(5) Coordination with utilities. Provision shall be made to coordinate landscaping with existing and proposed underground and overhead utility lines so as to avoid interference with plant growth and to not damage any utility or interrupt any utility service. Trees shall maintain a minimum of 10 horizontal feet distance from all water, sanitary, and storm structures.

(6) Existing trees.

(a) The preservation and incorporation of existing trees in a landscape plan, especially woodland heritage trees as described in Article XIV, is encouraged. The Planning Commission may require that existing material used to meet these requirements be inspected by the Township's staff or design consultants before accepting them as part of the landscape plan. The Planning Commission may require saving significant plant material based on its determination that a reasonable layout is possible incorporating those materials. "Significant materials" shall be defined as those not readily replaceable by virtue of their size, species, variety, shape, or location and may include significant wildlife habitats.

(b) Where existing trees are used to satisfy the requirements of this section, the following requirements shall apply:

[1] Grading, paving, or other site improvements shall not encroach upon the critical root zone (CRZ) of the existing tree(s) to be preserved.

[2] If existing plant material is labeled "To Remain" on site plans by the applicant or retention is required by the Township, protective techniques, such as, but not limited to, fencing or barriers placed at the edge of the CRZ around the perimeter of the plant material, shall be installed before construction begins. Barriers shall not be supported by the trees or shrubs they are protecting, and shall be of a durable material that provides the intended protection until construction is complete. No vehicle, construction equipment, materials, or debris shall be parked, stored, or temporarily or permanently disposed of within the dripline of any plant material intended to be saved, including fill. Other protective techniques may be used, provided that such techniques are approved by the Township.

[3] In the event that healthy trees which are used to meet the minimum requirements of this chapter or those labeled "To Remain" are cut down, destroyed, damaged, or excavated within the CRZ, as determined by the Township, the applicant shall replace them or provide an equivalent amount plus a ten-percent administrative fee for later replacement. Replacement trees will either be equivalent in size to the tree(s) removed, if possible, or the applicant will replace the total DBH of the tree(s) which have been removed. The performance guarantee may be used by Pittsfield Township to replace such materials.

[4] See § 40-14.08, Tree and woodland protection, for requirements regarding woodland and heritage trees.

(7) Stormwater retention and detention ponds. The integration of stormwater management systems, including bioswales, rain gardens, and retention and detention ponds in the overall landscape is required. Stormwater management systems that replicate a natural design and appearance is encouraged.

(8) Use of native plants in landscaping.

(a) Native plant species chosen for a development shall be based on the native species currently growing on the site, if any.

(b) The arrangement of native plant species may be designed in both natural arrangements and more conventional arrangements.

(c) Natural arrangements emulate the arrangements found in nature, and have a less manicured appearance. Natural arrangements shall incorporate a wide mix of species. This landscape style shall be used for landscaping open space, surface stormwater systems, street tree plantings, and/or parks. If natural arrangements are used, plant spacing requirements may be waived as long as the function the plants are to serve is accomplished.

(d) Conventional, more formal arrangements are generally used close to buildings or heavily used areas of a site. Native species may be used in these areas just as any other commercially available landscape material. As with any landscape design, the plant's ultimate size, soil and site requirements, and other characteristics shall be considered to ensure they do not overwhelm a space, encroach into walkways, or impede sight distance or visibility of motorists. In entryways, where aesthetics is of primary importance, cultivars of native plant species may be considered to ensure the plant's appearance.

(e) Plantings installed in areas used for stormwater management shall be planted with native species that specifically perform the necessary runoff attenuation, filtration, water uptake, and purification functions needed in such areas. Both herbaceous and woody species shall be incorporated into the mix where the desired function dictates.

(9) Installation, maintenance, and completion.

(a) All landscaping required by this chapter shall be planted before obtaining a certificate of occupancy or the appropriate financial surety as required in Article III, Administration and Enforcement.

(b) All landscaping and landscape elements shall be planted, and earthmoving or grading performed, in a sound workmanlike manner, according to accepted planting and grading procedure.

(c) Landscaping required by this chapter shall be maintained in a reasonably healthy condition, free from refuse and debris. All unhealthy or dead material shall be replaced within one year of damage or death or the next appropriate planting period, whichever comes first. All landscaped areas shall be provided with irrigation or a readily available and acceptable water supply.

(d) Topsoil removed during construction shall be stockpiled in an appropriate manner to prevent erosion, and shall be redistributed on regraded surfaces to be landscaped, and provide a minimum of four inches even cover. Plants shall be mulched with shredded hardwood bark mulch at a depth of four inches.

(e) Failure to install and maintain approved landscaping shall be a violation of this chapter.

C. Screening between land uses.

(1) The use of physical barriers or screens is considered a necessary requirement to allow for the transition from one zoning district or land use to another contrasting zoning district or land use. This promotes compatibility with existing uses and helps to protect the value of buildings and property. The purpose of this section is to create varying degrees of visual and physical separation between divergent land uses based on the similarity and/or compatibility of the uses.

(2) Screen requirements.

(a) A landscape buffer shall be constructed to create a visual screen at least six feet in height along all adjoining boundaries when a proposed use is either more intense or incompatible with an adjoining property, as set forth in Table 13.02.C-1. A landscape buffer shall consist of berms and living materials so as to maintain a minimum opacity of at least 80%. Opacity shall be measured by observation of any two square yard area of landscape screen between one foot above the established grade of the area to be concealed and the top or the highest point of the required screen. The plantings must meet this standard based upon reasonably anticipated growth over a period of three years.

(b) The width of the screen area, location and density of plantings shall be based upon the specific characteristics of the proposed use and adjacent land uses.

[1] Plants shall be arranged in a staggered pattern to create a continuous screen.

[2] Existing vegetation located on the property to be developed within the area of the proposed screen that is in good condition and meets the size and type requirements in the various screening alternatives may be counted toward meeting screening requirements.

[3] Screening shall be located along all adjoining boundaries. However, the width and location of the screening may be modified due to site conditions, provided that the intent of screening requirements is met.

(c) Landscape screening schedule. Table 13.02.C-1 describes the required screening on the lot of the use indicated in the left column of the schedule where it is contiguous to land used or zoned as indicated across the top of the schedule. The numbers in the middle columns refer to the landscape screening alternatives described in Table 13.02.C-2 below, and illustrated in Figures 13.02-A through C. Landscape screening alternatives are established in Table 13.02.C-2. The application of these landscape screening alternatives shall be controlled by Table 13.02.C-1, Landscape Screening Schedule.

Table 13.02.C-1 Landscape Screening Schedule
	When Contiguous with These Land Uses:
Screening Required on These Land Uses:	Use Group 1: Residential Uses	Use Group 2: Residential/Lodging Uses	Use Group 3: Office/Institutional Uses	Use Group 4: Auto/Transportation Uses	Use Group 5: Retail/Entertainment Uses	Use Group 6: Misc. Commercial Uses	Use Group 7: Industrial Uses
Use Group 1: Residential Uses One-family dwellings Two-family dwellings
Use Group 2: Residential/Lodging Uses
Multiple-family dwellings
Manufactured housing park
Live-work units	Screen Alt. 1 or 2
Senior assisted/independent living
Group day-care
Child-care centers
Use Group 3: Office/Institution
General office
Professional office
Hospitals
Medical office
Convalescent center
Primary/secondary schools
Colleges
Places of worship	Screen Alt. 1 or 2	Screen Alt. 1 or 2	Screen Alt. 1 or 2
Data centers
Technology centers/office research
Experimental research and testing labs
Utility and public service buildings (without storage yards)
Funeral homes
Veterinary clinics or hospitals
Use Group 4: Auto/Transportation Uses
Auto or vehicle sales
Auto or vehicle service station
Auto or vehicle repair station	Screen Alt. 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 3 and/or wall		Screen Alt. 1 and/or wall
Auto or vehicle body repair
Auto or vehicle wash
Auto or vehicle fueling/multi-use stations
Use Group 5: Retail/Entertainment Uses
Financial institutions
General retail
Retail, large-format
Multitenant shopping centers
Fitness centers	Screen Alt. 2 or 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 2 or 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 2 or 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 1 or 2
Theaters and places of assembly
Indoor recreation establishments
Restaurant
Personal service
Dry cleaning
Hair care
Use Group 6: Miscellaneous Commercial Uses
Building and lumber supply
Garden centers, nurseries
Outdoor recreation
Playgrounds
Campgrounds
Country clubs, including accessory uses and buildings	Screen Alt. 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 2 or 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 2 or 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 2 or 3	Screen Alt. 1 or 2
Golf driving ranges, mini-golf
Commercial outdoor storage
Mini/self-storage
Commercial kennels
Pet day-care
Use Group 7: Industrial Uses
Contractor's equipment storage
Extraction
Food products
Manufacturing, processing, etc.
Material distribution or recovery facilities
Metal plating
Outdoor storage facilities
Plastics Printing	Screen Alt. 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 3 and/or wall	Screen Alt. 2 or 3	Screen Alt. 2 or 3	Screen Alt. 2
Radio and television broadcasting and receiving antenna
Tool and die, gauge and machine shops
Truck/trailer rental
Truck terminals
Utility and public service buildings (with outdoor storage yards)
Warehousing/wholesale
Wireless communication facilities

Figure 13.02-A

Landscape Screening Alternative 1

Figure 13.02-B

Landscape Screening Alternative 2

Figure 13.02-C

Landscape Screening Alternative 3

Table 13.02.C-2 Landscape Screening Alternatives
Screening Alternative	Minimum Quantity	Type/Size
1	1 tree per 3 linear feet	Narrow evergreen tree
2	1 tree per 10 linear feet	Large evergreen tree
3	1 tree per 10 linear feet	Large evergreen tree
	1 tree per 5 linear feet	Narrow evergreen tree

(3) Solid wall or fence. Where a land use activity creates noise, light, dust, or other similar nuisance that cannot be effectively screened by a landscape buffer, a solid wall or fence may be required. Such wall or fence shall be a minimum of six feet and a maximum of eight feet in height as measured on the side of the proposed wall having the higher grade. A required wall shall be located on the lot line, except alternate locations may be approved where underground utilities interfere, where this chapter requires conformity with front yard setback requirements, or where an alternate location provides more effective screening. The construction materials of the wall or fence may include masonry, stone, or wood.

(4) Combinations. A combination of landscaping and a solid wall or fence may be approved where such a combination provides more effective screening.

D. Parking lot landscaping.

(1) Separate landscape areas shall be provided within and at the perimeter of parking lots so as to break up the broad expanse of pavement, guide the circulation of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and moderate the changes to the microclimate which results from additional pavement.

(2) Landscaping standards within parking lots.

(a) There shall be a minimum of one canopy tree for every eight parking spaces. Canopy trees are required for shading purposes. Flowering deciduous trees and evergreen trees may also be used, but shall not substitute for or replace canopy trees.

(b) In residential and agricultural districts, not more than 15 spaces shall be permitted in a bay without a break. In all other districts, the number of spaces in a bay shall not exceed 20. The required breaks shall be provided by curbed, landscaped islands.

(c) Landscaping islands shall be curbed islands in the parking lot not less than 200 square feet in area, with a minimum width of 10 feet. Modifications in curbing may be permitted when islands are used as part of the stormwater management system. Surfaces of islands shall be grass, other ground cover, or low-growing shrubs.

(d) Each parking lot shall provide an area that is a minimum of 5% of the lot's paved surface area for purposes of planting shade trees and other landscape materials. Greater than 5% interior landscape area may be required by the Planning Commission where needed to provide visual and climatic relief.

(e) A minimum distance of three feet from the backside of the curb and the proposed landscape plantings shall be provided. Where vehicles overhang a landscape island or strip, a minimum distance of five feet from the backside of the curb and the proposed landscape plantings shall be provided.

(f) An equivalent amount of landscape plantings at the perimeter of parking lots may be approved where landscaping within parking lots would be impractical due to the size of the parking lot, detrimental to safe and efficient traffic flow, or would create an unreasonable burden for maintenance and snowplowing, provided that all other landscaping requirements are met.

(3) Landscaping standards at the perimeter of parking lots.

(a) Canopy trees shall be provided along the perimeter of a parking lot at a minimum rate of one tree per each 40 feet of lot perimeter; however, trees need not be planted on forty-foot centers.

(b) Parking lot entrances shall be landscaped with canopy trees, shrubs and other plant material in a manner consistent with the character and quality of the site.

(c) Greenbelt planting between all parking areas and a right-of-way shall be met as set forth in § 40-13.02.E.

Figure 13.02-D

Parking Lot Landscaping

E. Greenbelts.

(1) Except as otherwise required by this chapter, a greenbelt shall be provided along all public streets on which a site has frontage, in accordance with the standards set forth in this section. These requirements shall replace parking lot perimeter landscaping requirements along public streets.

(2) Greenbelt standards.

(a) The greenbelt shall be a minimum of 10 feet in width.

(b) A landscaped berm at least three feet in height along the perimeter of the road right-of-way shall be used to screen the parking lot from the public road. Alternative landscape plantings or a solid wall that does not exceed three feet in height may be approved where it is found that space limitations or visibility for vehicular circulation prevents construction of a landscape berm.

(c) The greenbelt shall be landscaped with a minimum of one deciduous tree for every 30 linear feet, or fraction thereof, of frontage abutting a public road right-of-way. Deciduous trees within a greenbelt shall be a minimum caliper of 2.5 inches, and evergreen trees shall be a minimum of five to six feet in height.

(d) Creative placement of the trees, such as staggering, clustering, and/or other methods, is encouraged in an effort to eventually achieve a canopy.

(e) In addition to the required trees within the greenbelt, the remainder of the greenbelt shall be landscaped with grasses, ground covers, shrubs, and other natural landscape materials.

(f) Access drives from public rights-of-way through required greenbelts shall be permitted, but such drives shall not be subtracted from the linear dimension used to determine the minimum number of trees.

Figure 13.02-E

Greenbelt Landscaping

F. Site landscaping.

(1) A minimum of 20% of the site area shall be comprised of landscape material.

(2) Site area landscaping may include a combination of the preservation of existing tree cover, planting of new trees and plant material, landscape plazas, gardens and building foundation planting beds.

(3) Site area landscaping shall be provided to screen potentially objectionable site features, such as, but not limited to, loading areas, electrical transformers, and trash areas.

(4) The landscaping design shall promote compatibility and preserve the character of the site in relation to the immediately surrounding area and in relation to the general area in which the property is situated.

Figure 13.02-F

General Site Landscaping Overview

G. Subdivision and site condominium landscaping.

(1) The frontage of all internal public or private streets shall be landscaped with the equivalent of one tree for every 50 linear feet, or fraction thereof. Such street trees shall meet the minimum size, spacing, and species requirements set forth in § 40-13.02H, Minimum size and spacing requirements, and § 40-13.02I, Prohibited species.

(2) Where a subdivision or site condominium contains uses which are more intense or incompatible with an adjoining property, the screening requirements set forth in § 40-13.02C, Screening between land uses, shall be met. The preservation of existing trees along perimeter boundaries is encouraged regardless of whether screening is required.

(3) Where a subdivision or site condominium abuts the public road right-of-way of US-23 or I-94, the Screening Alternative Number 3, as set forth in Table 13.02.C-2, shall be required.

(4) A landscape plan for a subdivision or site condominium development shall also include landscaping details of the entrance to the development, stormwater retention and/or detention areas, community buildings, and other recreational areas, and any other site improvement which would be enhanced through the addition of landscaping.

H. Minimum size and spacing requirements. Where landscaping is required, the minimum size and spacing requirements set forth in Table 13.02.H-1 for representative landscape materials shall be applicable, unless otherwise specified in this section:

Table 13.02.H-1 Minimum Size and Space of Landscape Planting
Type of Planting	Minimum Size Allowable							Maximum On-Center Spacing2 (feet)
	Height (feet)				Caliper/Spread (inches)
	6-7	5-6	3-4	2-3	2	24-36	2 gallons	25	15	6	5	4	3	1
Large evergreen trees, such as:
Fir (Abies)
Spruce (Picea)
Pine (Pinus)
Hemlock (Tsuga)
Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga)
Tamarack; Larch (Larix)
Narrow evergreen trees, such as:
Arborvitae (Thuja)
Juniper (Juniperus)
Large evergreen shrubs, such as:
Hicks yew (Taxus)
Upright yew (Taxus)
Spreading yew (Taxus)
Upright juniper (Juniperus)
Spreading juniper (Juniperus)
Mugo pine (Pinus)
Small evergreen shrubs, such as:
Spreading (ward) yew
Upright (brown) yew
Dwarf spreading juniper
Dwarf mugo pine
Euonymus varieties1
Vines, such as:
Euonymus varieties1
Virginia creeper
Wisteria
Riverbank grape
American bittersweet
Large deciduous trees, such as:
Oak (Quercus)
Maple (Acer)1
Beech (Fagus)
Linden or basswood (Tilia)
Sweetgum (Liquidambar)
Ginkgo (male only) (Ginkgo)
Honeylocust (Gleditsia)
Birch (Betula)
Sycamore (Plantanus)
Hickory (Carya)
Black cherry (Prunus)
Tulip tree (Liriodendron)
Blackgum (Nyssa)
Small deciduous trees (ornamental), such as:
Dogwood
Flowering cherry, plum, pear1
Hawthorn
Redbud
Magnolia
Flowering crabapple
Mountain ash
Hornbeam
Sassafras
Ironwood
Serviceberry; juneberry
Ground cover, such as:
Euonymous varieties1
Wild strawberry1
Wild ginger
Large deciduous shrubs, such as:
Lilac
Sumac1
Pyrancantha
Weigela
Flowering quince
Cotoneaster
Sargent crabapple
Dogwood (red osier, grey, silky)
Euonymous varieties1
Viburnum varieties1
Witch hazel
Ninebark
Vaccinium (blueberry)
Holly
Spicebush
Hazelnut
Chokeberry
Chokecherry
Buttonbush
American elder
Small deciduous shrubs, such as:
Fragrant sumac
Cotoneaster
Potentilla
Meadowsweet
Leatherleaf
Rubus/ribus varieties

NOTES:
1	Refer to Prohibited Weeds and Invasive Plant List adopted by the Township Board.
2	"Maximum on-center" spacing refers to the largest space allowed between the centers of plants of the same species/variety.

I. Prohibited species. Prohibited species are set forth in the Prohibited Weeds and Invasive Plant List as adopted by the Township Board.

J. Private naturally landscaped lots. Where a landowner decides to use a landscape style that emulates nature, and such style is not prohibited by deed restriction, master deed and bylaws, or other restrictive covenant, such landscaping shall comply with the Township's Natural Lawn Ordinance as set forth in Chapter 38 of the Township Code.

K. Public art.

(1) The inclusion of public art may be approved as a replacement to the required greenbelt landscaping in any nonresidential district or a PUD.

(2) The proposed public art must be approved by the Planning Commission and must include a long-term maintenance plan for the public art.

(3) Public art must be visible from the public right-of-way.

§ 40-13.03 Trash and recycling containers.

A. Where required. The standards set forth in this section shall apply to all uses that have refuse and recycle disposal service by collective trash and recycling containers. This does not include curbside pickup for single-family residential uses, however, all residential buildings of more than two dwelling units and nonresidential uses shall provide trash and recycling enclosures.

[Amended 11-18-2020 by Ord. No. ZOA 20-211]

B. Container standards.

(1) Containers used to dispose of trash, grease, recyclables, and similar materials shall be screened on all sides with an opaque fence or wall, and gate at least as high as the container, but no less than six feet in height, and shall be constructed of durable material, such as wood or masonry, and construction which is compatible with the architectural materials used in the site development. Wire fencing or fencing with plastic, aluminum, or other filler strips shall not be used as enclosure walls or gates.

(2) Containers shall be consolidated to minimize the number of collection sites, located in close proximity to the building they serve, and easily accessed by refuse vehicles without potential damage to parked vehicles.

(3) Containers and enclosures shall be located in a side or rear yard, but shall not be located in any yard required adjacent to a public or private street, or in a required transition strip. If located in a required side or rear yard, the enclosure shall be at least 10 feet from the property line.

(4) Containers and enclosures shall be screened from public view whenever possible. Tree and shrub screening may be required around the enclosure to screen the enclosure from view and provide shade to reduce odors during summer months.

(5) Containers and enclosures shall be situated so that they do not cause excessive nuisance or offense to occupants of nearby buildings, or users of adjacent streets or sidewalks.

(6) Concrete pads and aprons of appropriate size and construction, a minimum of six inches thick, shall be provided.

(7) Installation of recycling containers may permit the removal of up to two required parking spaces.

§ 40-13.04 Equipment screening.

A. Where required. The standards set forth in this section shall apply to all uses for which mechanical equipment, including, but not limited to, generators, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, is placed upon a roof of any building or on the ground outside of the building.

B. Screening requirements. All equipment shall be screened as follows:

(1) Rooftop screening.

(a) Rooftop equipment shall be screened with architectural materials matching or harmonious with the building.

(b) Screens provided to obscure mechanical equipment shall be an opaque barrier at least as high as the equipment being screened.

(c) Rooftop equipment shall be located on the side or rear of a pitched-roof building, screened from public view.

(d) Rooftop equipment shall be situated so that it does not cause excessive nuisance or offense to occupants of nearby buildings.

(2) At-grade equipment.

(a) At-grade equipment shall be screened with architectural and/or landscape materials matching or harmonious with the building or landscape materials provided elsewhere on-site.

(b) Landscape materials shall be evergreen species so as to provide a screen year round.

(c) Walls provided to screen mechanical equipment shall be an opaque fence or wall, with a gate, at least as high as the equipment being screened.

(d) At-grade equipment shall be located in a side or rear yard, screened from public view.

(e) At-grade equipment shall be situated so that it does not cause excessive nuisance or offense to occupants of nearby buildings.

§ 40-13.05 Lighting.

A. Where required. The standards set forth in this section shall apply to all uses for which exterior lighting is provided. Lighting shall be provided to illuminate roadways, parking lots, intersections, and pedestrian areas of all new developments.

B. Lighting plan requirements. If lighting is provided, the following information must be provided on the site plan submissions:

(1) Location of all freestanding, building-mounted, and canopy light fixtures on the site plan and/or building elevations.

(2) Photometric grid overlaid on the proposed site plan, indicating the overall light intensity throughout the site (in footcandles) and 10 feet beyond the parcel lines. The Zoning Administrator may waive the requirement for sites with parking lots of 20 spaces or less or for sites that are not adjacent to residentially zoned property.

(3) Specifications and details for the type of fixture being proposed, including the initial lumen rating, type of lamp, method of shielding, type of lens, and all applicable accessories. The details shall include a depiction of the lighting pattern and light levels applicable for the proposed pole height.

C. General standards.

(1) Lighting systems shall limit light trespass, restrict light trespass to specific levels, provide generally even illumination for all intended vehicular and pedestrian areas, and use energy efficient light sources.

(2) Site lighting shall be directed away from residential properties as much as possible.

D. Freestanding pole lighting.

(1) Fixture and bulb design.

(a) Exterior lighting shall be a full cut-off fixture as defined by the Illumination Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) or other suitably shielded fixture, downward directed with a flat lens to prevent light trespass. All lights shall be shielded in such a manner that light rays emitted by the fixture, either directly from the lamp or indirectly from the fixture, are projected below a horizontal plane running through the lowest point on the fixture where light is emitted. All light fixtures shall be installed in such a manner that the shielding satisfies the definition of a fully shielded fixture. All fixtures closest to the property line shall have house side shields.

(b) Replacement of existing metal halide bulbs, mercury vapor bulbs, or other light sources is permitted, provided that such source does not exceed 4000 Kelvin.

(c) All new fixtures shall be LED unless, upon showing a good cause and substantially equivalent energy efficiency, alternative fixtures are specifically approved by the Planning Commission as shown on a photometric and lighting plan.

(d) Decorative or historic light fixtures may be approved as an alternative to shielded fixtures when it can be shown that there will be limited off-site light trespass through the use of low-wattage lamps and the proposed fixtures will be more consistent with the character of the site.

(e) Light fixtures and poles shall be compatible with the character of the development, as determined by the Township.

(f) Roadway light systems shall be in accordance with Washtenaw County Road Commission, Michigan Department of Transportation, or the City of Ann Arbor, as applicable.

(2) Lighting levels.

(a) Light levels shall comply with the International Dark-Sky Association's goal to eliminate overlighting by using the minimum recommended values as maximum values as stated in Illuminating Engineering Society of North America's (IESNA) RP-8 and RP-33, as amended.

(b) The intensity of light at the base of a light fixture pole shall not exceed 10 footcandles.

(c) Light shall not exceed 0.1 footcandle along any boundary, or beyond, adjacent to residentially zoned or used property, and 0.5 footcandle along or beyond all nonresidential property boundaries.

(d) Light levels shall be measured on the horizontal plane at grade level within the site, and on the vertical plane of any property line boundary or street right-of-way line at a height of five feet above grade level.

(e) Except as stated elsewhere in these regulations, light levels will be limited to those published as recommendations by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America

(f) The maximum uniformity (max-to-min) ratio shall be 10:1.

(3) Height.

(a) The maximum height of a fixture shall be no more than 20 feet above grade in residential districts.

(b) The maximum height of a fixture shall be no more than 25 feet above grade in commercial or office districts, and 20 feet in these districts if the subject property is adjacent to a residential property. An exception may be made for larger commercial applications as long as light trespass falls within the specified limits in Subsection D(2)(c) above.

(c) The maximum height of a fixture shall be no more than 30 feet above grade in an industrial district where fixtures are not closer than 200 feet to any residential district.

(d) No fixture shall be a height that allows the fixture light source to be directly seen at the property line.

(4) Light pole location.

(a) Light poles shall be located not less than five feet from the edge of a drive or parking space, where feasible, and not interfere with traffic flow, access to fire hydrants, or other utilities.

(b) Light poles located along streets shall be in accordance with Washtenaw County Road Commission, Michigan Department of Transportation, or the City of Ann Arbor, as applicable.

(5) Duration. All outdoor lighting fixtures, existing or hereafter installed and maintained upon private property, shall be turned off or reduced in lighting intensity between 11:00 p.m. and sunrise. The following exceptions may be approved:

(a) Where greater lighting levels are necessary for security or safety purposes; or

(b) Where permissible commercial or industrial uses, such as sales, assembly and repair, operate after 11:00 p.m., in which case the lighting levels shall be turned off or reduced after the use ceases for that day.

E. Nonresidential building-mounted lighting. Building-mounted lighting fixtures for the purpose of lighting entrances, adjacent sidewalks, parking areas and loading areas is permitted subject to the following restrictions:

(1) Building-mounted lighting shall be a full cutoff fixture or fully shielded and directed downward to prevent light trespass. The intensity of light shall not exceed 10 footcandles at grade for any building-mounted fixture. Maximum fixture height shall be 20 feet.

(2) Light shall not exceed 0.1 footcandle along or beyond zoned or existing residential property lines and 0.5 footcandle along or beyond nonresidential property lines.

(3) Decorative or historic light fixtures may be approved as an alternative to shielded fixtures when it can be proven that there will be limited off-site light trespass through the use of low-wattage lamps and the proposed fixtures will be more consistent with the character of the site.

F. Nonresidential architectural lighting of building facades. The lighting of a building facade for architectural, aesthetic, or decorative purposes is permitted subject to the following restrictions:

(1) All building facade lighting shall be low-intensity. All building facade lighting shall be fully shielded and fully confined from projecting into the sky by eaves, roofs, or overhangs, and mounted as flush to the wall as possible, as determined by the Township.

(2) Luminaires shall be downward directed.

(3) The maximum illumination of any vertical surface or angular roof surface shall not exceed five footcandles.

(4) Internally illuminated architectural bands or external lighting directed on buildings may be approved where it can be shown that the treatment will serve a legitimate function and will not adversely impact neighboring properties.

G. Canopy lighting.

(1) Flat lenses are required.

(2) Downlight fixtures must be recessed into the ceiling/grid system.

(3) Illumination levels shall comply with IESNA standards.

(4) Illumination shall not exceed 50 footcandles (432LM/M²) under a canopy.

H. Flagpole lighting. A flagpole may be illuminated by one of the following methods:

(1) With one upward-aimed spotlight fixture, fully shielded and directed away from streets, shining only on the flag and minimizing light spill into the dark night sky. The fixture shall be placed as close to the base of the flagpole as reasonably possible.

(2) With one downward-aimed light fixture, fully shielded and directed away from streets, shining only on the flag and minimizing light spill into the dark night sky.

I. Prohibited lighting types. The following lighting types are prohibited:

(1) The use of search lights, lasers, or any similar high-intensity light for outdoor advertisement or entertainment.

(2) Floodlights.

(3) Flashing, moving, strobe, or intermittent-type lighting.

(4) Exterior exposed luminous tube lighting (neon, cold cathode, or similar source), or exposed bulb fluorescent lighting.

J. Exemptions. The following are exempt from the lighting requirements of this section, except that the Zoning Administrator may require a lighting and photometric plan when deemed necessary to protect the public health, safety, and welfare:

(1) Sports fields.

(2) Swimming pools serving the public or private club members.

(3) Holiday decorations.

(4) Three-foot-high, shielded pedestrian walkway lighting.

(5) Ornamental low-voltage lighting (12 volts or less), low-wattage ornamental landscape lighting fixtures, and solar-operated light fixtures having self-contained rechargeable batteries, where any single light fixture does not exceed 100 lumens.

(6) Carnivals or other temporary commercial activities; however, a permit valid for seven days from the Zoning Administrator is required.

K. Lamp or fixture substitution. No substitution of any existing light fixture or lamp type is permitted without approval of the Zoning Administrator, who may require sufficient information to ensure compliance with the standards of this chapter.

§ 40-13.06 Fences.

A. Permit requirements. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to construct, or cause to be constructed, any fence on any property within Pittsfield Charter Township, except in accordance with these regulations. Any person, firm, or corporation desiring to construct, or cause to be constructed, any fence that is subject to these regulations shall first obtain a fence permit from the Building Department. The application for a fence permit shall contain any and all information, including drawings, that is required and necessary to determine compliance with this chapter.

B. Location of fences. All fences shall be located entirely on the property of the owner of the fence. Adjoining property owners may jointly apply for a fence permit for the purpose of constructing a fence on the common property line.

C. Height regulations.

(1) Residential district.

(a) Only ornamental-type fences shall be located in a required front yard or, in the case of a corner or through lot, in a required yard which adjoins a public or private street, provided that such fences shall not exceed three feet in height.

(b) Fences may be located in any required yard not adjoining a public or private street, provided that they shall not exceed six feet in height.

(2) Commercial or form-based district. Fences shall not exceed six feet in height. Fences in a front yard or a street yard shall not be permitted in a commercial, form-based, or office district except where required by the Township Planning Commission.

[Amended 11-18-2020 by Ord. No. ZOA 20-211]

(3) Business, industrial, or public facility district. Fences shall not exceed 12 feet in height or, when located in a front or street yard, opacity of 50%.

(4) In determining the maximum height of a fence that separates two adjoining lots and that is located within two feet of the common lot line, the maximum height at any point shall be measured from the highest grade at that point within two feet on either side of the common lot line.

D. Vision clearance. All fences shall comply with § 40-12.01, Visibility at intersections, herein. A fence that is located at the intersection of a driveway and a public sidewalk, or a sidewalk along a private street, shall not impede vision between the driveway and sidewalk.

E. Safety of fences.

(1) No spikes, nails, barbed wire, or other pointed objects or sharp protrusions shall be placed on, attached to, or permitted to remain on, any fence below the height of 10 feet, except in the case of fences that enclose active farmland, in which case barbed wire is permitted at any height of the fence.

(2) Fences shall not contain any electric charge or current, except fences that enclose active farmland, in which case electrically charged fence wires are permitted, provided that such wires are attached to the inside face of the fence posts. All electrically charged fences shall be of a type and make approved by Underwriters Laboratories.

(3) Plastic strips installed within wire/metal fencing is prohibited.

[Added 11-18-2020 by Ord. No. ZOA 20-211]

F. Retaining walls. A retaining wall shall be regulated as a fence if the wall projects more than 18 inches above the grade of the ground being retained.

G. Public utility fences. Fences that enclose public utility installations shall not be located in any required yard where the lot is located in a residential zoning district. Such fences may be located in any required yard where the lot is located in any other zoning district. Such fences shall comply with all other provisions of this chapter.

H. Maintenance. All fences shall be maintained in good condition. Fences shall be further maintained so as not to endanger life or property. Any fence which, through lack of repair, type of construction, or other condition endangers life or property, is hereby deemed a nuisance.

[Amended 11-18-2020 by Ord. No. ZOA 20-211]

I. Exemptions. Fences not greater than four feet in height enclosing active farmland shall be exempt from the regulations and requirements of this section, except § 400-13.06A.