The purpose of cluster zoning is to create and promote an alternative
and optional method of new residential development through a cluster
zoning concept that would encourage good site planning on environmentally
sensitive tracts but that would maintain the same density as permitted
by the underlying zoning district. This cluster zoning is an overlay
district that applies only to land zoned as R-3 Residential.
The use of cluster zoning is herein included to advance the
following objectives:
A.
To permit a more attractive, varied arrangement of dwelling units
and open space on a particular tract.
B.
To allow specific parcels of land to be developed more efficiently
and economically and with greater environmental sensitivity than is
possible under standard lot-by-lot zoning.
C.
To preserve natural features such as tree masses, stream valleys,
woodlands, steep slopes, and other natural features which are appropriate
for park, recreation, and/or other open space uses.
A.
The tract of land must be held in single and separate ownership and
contain not less than five acres.
C.
The housing types permitted in this Cluster Overlay shall be single-family
attached dwellings (townhouses) and single-family semidetached dwellings
(twins) only.
D.
No structure shall be nearer than 30 feet to the tract boundary.
E.
Where the developer elects to develop not less than two acres with
the permitted housing types, a reduction in lot area of 10% shall
be permitted.
F.
The total number of units permitted shall not exceed the number allowed
under the regulations of the R-3 District.
The following requirements shall be met before approval of the
cluster-type development is granted:
A.
The areas designated as open space areas shall be those which will
serve to preserve woodlands, stream valleys, steep slopes, unusual
topography, or other natural features of the tract or which are appropriate
for park, recreation, or other open space purposes.
B.
Areas for common open space use may be reserved for private use or
may, subject to agreement of Borough Council, be dedicated to the
Borough. Areas to be set aside and reserved for private use shall
be restricted by dedicated easement, covenant, or other legal written
agreement acceptable to the Borough for perpetual preservation and
maintenance of the subject open space.
