The standards and provisions of this Article II include the definitions and terms used in this chapter and shall apply to all lands in all zoning districts unless application to specific instances is expressly stated. In this chapter, the following rules of interpretation shall be used:
A.Â
The word "lot" includes the word "plot" or "parcel."
B.Â
Words in the present tense may imply the future tense.
C.Â
Words used as singular imply the plural.
D.Â
The masculine gender includes the feminine and neuter genders.
E.Â
The word "person" includes a partnership, corporation, association,
trust, estate, or any other legally recognized entity as well as an
individual.
F.Â
The word "shall" is to be interpreted as mandatory; the word "may"
as directory.
G.Â
References to any document, official, or entity (i.e., codes, ordinances,
resolutions, plans, maps, governmental bodies, commissions, agencies,
or officials) are references to Lancaster Township documents, officials,
or entities in effect at the time, unless the text indicates that
another reference is intended.
Unless otherwise stated, the following words shall, for the purpose of this chapter, have the meanings herein indicated. All terms not otherwise defined in this Article II or elsewhere in this chapter, the most-recent version of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), as amended,[1] and/or the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township
Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance,
as amended,[2] shall have their common and ordinary meanings. Words in
the present tense include the future tense. Words in the singular
include the plural, and words in the plural include the singular.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
An alternative energy system that supplies energy primarily
for on-site use, except that when a property upon which the system
is installed also receives electrical power supplied by a utility
company, excess electrical power generated and not presently needed
for on-site use may be used by the utility company. This definition
shall not in any way limit or preclude those accessory alternative
energy systems conducted pursuant to and part of power purchase agreements.
See "accessory structure," except that unroofed decks and
patios shall not be considered as accessory buildings.
An independent dwelling unit subordinate to and added to,
created within, or detached from a principal single-family detached
dwelling.
A detached, subordinate structure, the use of which is customarily
incidental to that of the principal structure, and which is located
on the same lot as that occupied by the principal structure. Unroofed
decks and patios shall be considered as accessory structures within
the meaning of this chapter. (See also "deck" and "patio.")
A use customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal
use of the land or principal building and located on the same lot
with such principal use or principal building.
Any one of the following areas of sales, service, or entertainment:
ADULT BOOKSTOREAny establishment or place:
Which has a substantial or significant portion of its stock-in-trade
consisting of either:
Books, magazines or other periodicals, films or other forms
of audio or visual representation which are distinguished or characterized
by an emphasis on depiction, description or display of sexual activities
or conduct or uncovered male or female genital areas; or
Instruments, devices or paraphernalia which are designed primarily
for use in connection with sexual activities or conduct;
To which the public is permitted or invited wherein coin- or
slug-operated electronically or mechanically controlled still- or
motion-picture machines, projectors or other image-producing devices
are maintained to show material distinguished or characterized by
an emphasis on depiction, description or display of sexual activities
or conduct or uncovered male or female genital areas.
ADULT THEATERAny theater, auditorium, concert hall or other place of assembly:
Presenting any form of audio or visual material, and in which
a substantial portion of the total presentation time measured over
any consecutive twelve-month period is or will be characterized by
emphasis on depiction, description or display of sexual activities
or uncovered male or female genital areas; or
Featuring live performances on a regular basis which are distinguished
or characterized by emphasis on depiction, description or display
of sexual activities or by exposure of uncovered male or female genital
areas for observation by patrons.
MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENTAny establishment or business which provides the services of massage and body manipulation, including exercises, heat and light treatments of the body, and all forms of physiotherapy, unless operated by a medical practitioner, chiropractor or professional physical therapist licensed by the commonwealth. This definition does not include an athletic club, health club, school, gymnasium, reducing salon, spa or similar establishment where massage or similar manipulation of the human body is offered as an incidental or accessory service.
OTHER ADULT-ORIENTED RETAIL, COMMERCIAL SERVICE OR ENTERTAINMENT ESTABLISHMENTAny other business or club which primarily offers its patrons or members retail goods, commercial services, or entertainment which is characterized by an emphasis on matter or activities relating to, depicting, describing or displaying sexual activity or conduct or uncovered male or female genital areas.
Agricultural operations that involve, but are not necessarily
limited to, one or more of the following conditions:
CONCENTRATED ANIMAL FEEDING OPERATION (CAFO)An agricultural operation that meets the criteria established by the Department of Environmental Protection under authority of the Act of June 22, 1937 (P.L. 1987, No. 394), known as the "Clean Streams Law."[3]
CONCENTRATED ANIMAL OPERATION (CAO)An agricultural operation that meets the criteria established by the State Conservation Commission in regulations under the authority of 3 Pa.C.S.A. Chapter 5 (relating to nutrient management and odor management) or in Chapter 83, Subchapter D (relating to nutrient management).
OTHER AGRIBUSINESSAny agricultural operation other than a CAFO or CAO, whether involving animal, animal product, or vegetable production, which occurs within an enclosed structure exceeding 10,000 square feet.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I); includes facilities commonly known as "riding stables" and "corrals." Agricultural operations are further defined and regulated.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II); not a local road, establishing a front yard.
Any interior or exterior change to a building; any renovation
to a building which would change its use or classification.
Any one or more methods and facilities used in the conversion,
storage, and distribution, including electrical infrastructure, transmission
lines, and other appurtenant structures and facilities, of renewable
energy sources (including but not limited to sunlight, wind, rain,
tides, and geothermal heat).
A commercial establishment which provides a principal use
involving amusement devices and/or games of skill or chance (e.g.,
pinball machines, video games, skeeball, electronic or water firing
ranges and other similar devices).
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
An establishment providing for the retail repair, maintenance,
and/or reconstruction of motor vehicles, trailers, and other similar
large mechanical equipment or vehicles, including paint, body and
fender, major engine and engine part overhaul, and accessory storage.
An establishment providing for the retail display, sales,
and/or rental of motor vehicles, trailers, and other similar large
mechanical equipment or vehicles, including accessory service, repair,
and storage facilities.
An establishment providing for the retail servicing and/or
maintenance of motor vehicles, trailers, and other similar large mechanical
equipment or vehicles, including brake work, muffler work, upholstery
work, tire repair and change, inspections, oil changes and lubrication,
tune-ups, transmission work, and accessory storage.
A line joining the midpoints of the front and rear lot lines.
A corner lot shall have two axes, each of which shall be defined as
a line joining the midpoints of a front lot line and the opposite
side lot line. In the event that a lot line is not a straight line,
the midpoint of such lot line shall be determined as the midpoint
of a straight line drawn between each terminus of such lot line. See
Figure 2-1.
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AXIS OF A LOT
|
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 |
|
Figure 2-1
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Any of the following types of child and/or adult day-care
activities:
The temporary or occasional care of any number of children and/or
adults not related to the person giving care which takes place at
the home of the person giving care.
The temporary or occasional care of any number of children and/or
adults at a dwelling unit customarily and regularly occupied by the
children and/or adults as their residence.
The regular care of one, two, or three children and/or adults
not related to the person giving care which takes place at the home
of the person giving care.
An establishment in which money is kept for savings or commercial
purposes, investment purposes, supplied for loans, or exchanged, and
that includes routine interactions with customers and/or patrons.
A bank may also provide financial counseling, planning, and services
related to money management, and includes those establishments considered
savings and loans and credit unions.
That portion of a building which is completely below grade
or partially below grade where the average distance between the finished
surface of the above floor and the ground level along the perimeter
of all exterior walls is less than six feet.
The zoning district within which a development, use, or structure
is located.
An establishment which is considered a short-term rental unit within a residential building in which the owner offers temporary overnight lodging accommodations and meal service, for less than 15 days in any thirty-day period, to transient guests, visitors, or tourists for compensation; excludes "boardinghouses" and "visitor accommodations," as defined in Article II of this chapter.
[Amended 4-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014-03; 11-14-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-02]
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
An establishment operated by the owner or resident manager providing residential occupancy of a building containing room(s) that do not meet the definition of a "dwelling unit" as defined in this Article II of this chapter, are rented as living quarters (but not dwelling units) for a minimum of 30 consecutive days, and that typically provide communal kitchen/dining facilities. Boardinghouses include facilities commonly known as "rooming houses" and "single room occupancies" but exclude "visitor accommodations," "bed-and-breakfasts," "group homes," "nursing homes," "retirement homes," "personal care homes," or "short-term rental units" as defined in Article II of this chapter.
[Amended 11-14-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-02]
The Board of Supervisors of Lancaster Township.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Building
Code, as amended.[4] Buildings shall include roofed porches, roofed decks,
swimming pools, greenhouses, stables, garages, roadside stands, mobile/manufactured
homes, and similar structures, whether stationary or movable, but
shall exclude fences, walls, signs, awnings, unroofed decks and patios.
Features which are structurally essential and connected to the structure
shall be considered as part of the structure within the meaning of
this chapter.
The total area of the greatest outside dimensions on a horizontal
plane at ground level of all buildings on a lot.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Building
Code, as amended.
A line formed by the intersection of a horizontal plane and
a vertical plane that coincides with the exterior surface of the principal
building on any side, excluding any patios or decks. In the case of
a cantilevered or projected section of a building, except overhanging
eaves, gutters and cornices, the vertical plane will coincide with
the most projected surface. All yard requirements are measured to
the building line.
A line that is the required minimum distance from any lot
line and that establishes the area within which the principal structure
must be erected or placed. Minimum front yard depth is measured from
the street right-of-way line as indicated in the zoning district regulations
for each zoning district.
A lot or tract of ground on which may be placed tents, campers,
trailers or motor homes which do not exceed 250 square feet in floor
area, where persons or families may live temporarily. For the purpose
of this definition, "temporarily" means not exceeding four continuous
consecutive weeks (i.e., every day for four consecutive weeks).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
An establishment providing for the retail washing and cleaning
of motor vehicles, trailers, and other similar large mechanical equipment
or vehicles.
An area used or intended to be used for the burial of the
deceased, including columbaria, crematoria and mausoleums.
A certificate, issued by the duly authorized representative
of the Township upon completion of the construction of a new building
or upon a change or conversion of the structure or use of a building,
which certifies that all requirements and regulations as provided
herein, and within all other applicable requirements, have been complied
with.
The Chairman of the Board of Supervisors of Lancaster Township.
Natural wood that has no paint, stains, or other types of
coatings and natural wood that has not been treated with, including
but not limited to, copper chromium arsenate, creosote, or pentachlorophenol.
For the purposes of this chapter, the term shall include all wood
intended to be used as fuel, including but not limited to trees, cordwood,
logs, lumber, sawdust, and wood from manufacturing processes (butt-offs,
shavings, turnings, sander dust), wood pellets, slabs, bark, chips,
and waste pallets.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
Any device used for the transmission or reception of radio,
television, wireless telephone, pager, commercial mobile radio service
or any other wireless communications signals, including, without limitation,
omnidirectional or whip antennas and directional or panel antennas,
owned or operated by any person or entity licensed by the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) to operate such device. This definition
shall not include private residence-mounted satellite dishes or television
antennas or amateur radio equipment, including, without limitation,
ham or citizens' band radio antennas.
A structure other than a building, such as a monopole, self-supporting
or guyed tower, designed and used to support communications antennas.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I), and the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Comprehensive Plan, as amended.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
Any retail sales establishment offering for sale household
items, newspapers, magazines, sandwiches, and other food and beverage
products primarily for off-premises consumption. Such establishments
may include the sale of gasoline and motor vehicle washing facilities.
A residential subdivision or land development which does not comply with the open space development criteria established in Article XV of this chapter relating to conventional residential development, unless otherwise provided by this chapter.
A publicly owned and operated building or group of buildings
and facilities used to house, detain, or to provide programs or services
to persons who have been charged with or convicted of criminal offenses.
[Added 12-13-2021 by Ord. No. 2021-05]
Any dwelling, building, or portion where adult day-care services
or child day-care services other than babysitting are provided, including
any on-site outdoor play area. For the purposes of this chapter, day-care
facilities shall not include the care or instruction of children within
places of worship during religious services attended by adults or
for periods of time less than five hours per day when adult services
are not in progress. Day-care facilities shall be further differentiated
by the following three classifications:
FAMILY DAY-CARE HOMEAny premises or dwelling unit, other than the home of the child or adult, where the day-care areas are being used as a family residence, operated for profit or not for profit, in which day-care is provided at any one time on a regular basis to four, five, or six children or adults, who are not relatives of the person giving care. (For differentiation, see the definition of "babysitting.").
GROUP DAY-CARE HOMEA facility in which care is provided for more than six but fewer than 12 children or adults, at any one time, where the day-care areas are being used as a family residence. [This definition shall include such facilities caring for 12 children, provided that the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare (PA DPW) has granted a special exception under the Department's group day-care facility regulations.]
DAY-CARE CENTERA facility which is licensed to provide care for seven or more children or adults at any one time, where the child or adult care areas are not being used as a residence.
An elevated structure constructed for use as an outdoor living
area. (See also "patio" and "accessory structure.")
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
The number of dwelling units permitted in relation to the
land area actually in use or proposed to be used for residential purposes,
exclusive of public rights-of-way, and private streets.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
Any man-made change to improved or unimproved lots, including
but not limited to the construction, reconstruction, renovation, repair,
expansion, or alteration of buildings or other structures; the placement
of mobile/manufactured homes, streets, and other paving, and utilities;
filling, grading and excavation; mining; dredging; drilling operations;
storage of equipment or materials; and the subdivision of land.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
A structure designed for providing goods and services to
drivers and patrons who remain in their vehicles before and during
the on-site activity.
A private drive providing access between a public or private
street or access drive and parking facilities for a single unit of
occupancy.
A building containing three or more dwelling units on one
lot. See Figure 2-2.
A building containing three or more dwelling units, with
each dwelling unit on a separate lot. See Figure 2-3.
A building containing one dwelling unit, not attached to
any other dwelling units. See Figure 2-4.
A building containing two dwelling units, with each dwelling
unit on a separate lot. See Figure 2-5.
A building containing two dwelling units on one lot. See
Figure 2-6.
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DWELLING – MULTIFAMILY DIAGRAM
 Figure 2-2
|
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DWELLING – SINGLE-FAMILY ATTACHED DIAGRAM
 Figure 2-3
|
|
DWELLING – SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED DIAGRAM
 Figure 2-4
|
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DWELLING – SINGLE-FAMILY SEMIDETACHED DIAGRAM
 Figure 2-5
|
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DWELLING – TWO-FAMILY DIAGRAM
 Figure 2-6
|
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Building
Code,[5] as amended. A dwelling unit shall not be occupied by more than one family, as defined in this Article II of this chapter. If not owner-occupied, a dwelling unit shall be occupied for a minimum of 30 consecutive days.
[Amended 11-14-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-02]
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
Any one or more of the following:
A single individual maintaining one common household occupying
a dwelling unit.
Two or more persons related by blood, marriage, or legal guardianship,
licensed or court-appointed foster care or legal adoption, maintaining
one common household occupying a dwelling unit.
Not more than three persons who are not related to each other
by blood, marriage, legal guardianship, licensed or court-appointed
foster care, or legal adoption, occupying a dwelling unit.
Not more than eight related or unrelated persons who are the
functional equivalent of a family in that they maintain one common
household occupying a dwelling unit and who are part of a community-based
residential home which qualifies as a community living arrangement
licensed by the DPW or other appropriate federal or state agency having
jurisdiction, where the persons occupying the home are handicapped
persons under the terms of the most-recent versions of the Fair Housing
Amendments Act, as amended, and the Americans with Disabilities Act,
and where the operator of the home provides room and board, personal
care, rehabilitative services and supervision in a family environment.
The presence of staff persons in a home meeting this definition shall
not disqualify the group of persons occupying the dwelling unit as
a family.
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[NOTE: The Federal Fair Housing Act amendments define "handicap"
as follows: "(1) a physical or mental impairment which substantially
limits one or more of such person's major life activities; (2) a record
of having such an impairment; or (3) being regarded as having such
an impairment, but such term does not include current, illegal use
of or addiction to a controlled substance as defined in Section 802
of Title 21." This definition was subsequently adjusted by Section
512 of the Americans with Disabilities Act to address certain situations
related to substance abuse treatment.]
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See the most recent version of the Lancaster Township Floodplain
Management Ordinance.[6]
[Amended 4-11-2016 by Ord. No. 2016-02]
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Building
Code, as amended.
The sum total of all floor area space relegated to use by
the customer and the retail employee to conduct retail sales, including
the display area used to indicate the variety of goods available for
customers, but not including accessory office space, storage space,
and other general administrative areas.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
An establishment where deceased persons are prepared for
burial or cremation and where a funeral service may also be held.
An establishment with more than two mechanical amusement
devices. "Mechanical amusement devices" shall be defined as machines
designed for recreation and entertainment and shall include, but not
be limited to, pinball machines, electronic video games, pool tables,
and other amusement machines.
An accessory building for the storage of one of more automobiles
or other vehicles accessory and incidental to the primary use of the
premises; provided, however, that one commercial vehicle of not more
than one ton's capacity may be stored therein where the use of such
vehicle is not incidental to the use of the premises.
A building or portion thereof, other than a private garage,
designed or used for servicing, repairing, equipping, renting, selling
or storing motor-driven vehicles.
A building or lot or part thereof supplying and selling gasoline
or other equivalent fuel for motor vehicles at retail direct from
pumps and storage tanks, and which may include accessory facilities
for rendering services, such as lubrication, washing, and minor repairs,
and storage.
A recreational area primarily used for playing golf, with
a minimum of 2,800 yards of play in nine holes.
An open space corridor that links urban, suburban, and rural
communities to natural and scenic areas with a network of connected
trails, walkways, and natural preservation areas.
A dwelling inhabited by not more than eight handicapped persons,
as identified and provided for by the Fair Housing Act and/or Americans
with Disabilities Act, and complying with Subsection D in the definition
of "family." Group homes must be licensed where required by any appropriate
government agencies, and a copy of any such licenses must be delivered
to the Township prior to beginning the use. Group homes shall be subject
to the same limitations and regulation by the Township as single-family
detached dwellings, except parking.
Any item or agent (biological, chemical, radiological, and/or
physical), which has the potential to cause harm to humans, animals,
or the environment, either by itself or through interaction with other
factors.
[Added 8-13-2018 by Ord.
No. 2018-03]
An occupation or business conducted by a resident in the
resident's dwelling unit or an accessory building, as an accessory
use which is incidental and clearly subordinate to the residential
use and does not change the residential character thereof. For the
purpose of this chapter, a home occupation shall not include day-care
facilities, which are regulated as a separate use.
HOME OCCUPATION, MINORA home occupation which:
Has no exterior evidence of the home occupation;
Does not generate traffic in excess of 20 trips in 24 hours
in addition to trips generated by the residence (A "trip" is a vehicle
traveling in one direction to or from a source. In other words, 20
trips equals 10 round trips.);
Does not create a need for parking beyond normal dwelling needs;
and
Is operated by and employs family members residing on the premises
of the home occupation.
HOME OCCUPATION, MAJORA home occupation which:
Is conducted within a single-family dwelling, including a single-family
detached dwelling, a single-family semidetached dwelling, or a single-family
attached dwelling;
Meets the combined parking needs of both the dwelling and home
occupation; and
Involves or employs no more than one person who is not a family
member residing on the premises in the operation of the home occupation.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Building
Code, as amended. A hospital shall be licensed by the Department of
Health of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a hospital.
A surface that prevents the infiltration of water into the
ground. Impervious surfaces (areas) shall include, but are not limited
to: roofs, additional indoor living spaces, patios, garages, storage
sheds and similar structures, and any new streets, access drives,
driveways, and sidewalks. Decks, parking compounds, driveways, and
access drives are not counted as impervious areas if they do not prevent
infiltration. Any surface area proposed to initially be gravel or
crushed stone shall be assumed to be impervious, unless designed as
an infiltration BMP. This term shall also include impervious material.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
Includes scrap, copper, brass, rope, rags, batteries, paper,
trash, rubber debris, appliances, waste iron, steel and other old
or scrap ferrous or nonferrous material, including wrecked, scrapped,
ruined, dismantled or junked motor vehicles or parts thereof.
Any area and/or structure used primarily for the collecting,
storage and/or sale of those items defined under "junk."
An establishment in which dogs or other domesticated animals
are housed, boarded, bred, or reared on a commercial basis.
An establishment which carries on investigations, testing,
and experimentation in the natural, physical, technical, or social
sciences, or engineering and development as an extension of such investigation,
with the objective of creating end products.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
For purposes of this chapter relating to the number of full-time-equivalent
licensed medical professionals for medical clinics and medical offices,
this term shall include those individuals who are authorized by law
to examine, diagnose, and treat patients, including physicians, dentists,
opticians, psychologists, and other similar medical and dental professionals.
This term shall not include nurses other medical support and/or administrative
support staff.
Large animals and/or farm animals, including, but not limited
to, the following: horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, cattle, sheep,
goats, swine, and poultry.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I). A "lot" shall include one or more contiguous pieces, parcels, or plots of land of record all under the same ownership.
The area contained within the lot lines of the individual
parcels of land, excluding space within any street or ultimate right-of-way,
but including the area of any easement. Lot area shall be measured
to the legal right-of-way line of the street.
A lot abutting two or more street rights-of-way at their
intersection, in which the average center lines of such roads along
the lot frontage of the lot form an interior angle of less than 135°.
See Figure 2-7.
That portion or percentage of the lot area covered by impervious
surfaces and/or materials.
The average distance between the street right-of-way line and the rear lot line, measured perpendicular or radial to the street right-of-way line. Lot depth shall be measured to the legal right-of-way line of the street. In the case of a double-frontage lot, such distance shall be measured from each street right-of-way. In the case of a flag lot, see Article XVI of this chapter relating to flag lots. In the case of a corner lot, such distance shall be measured from each street right-of-way to each side lot line and as otherwise provided herein in this definition above. See Figure 2-7.
A lot which is not a corner lot and abuts two or more streets,
with possible vehicular access to both streets. See Figure 2-7.
A lot, created by a subdivision, whose frontage ("pole")
does not satisfy the minimum lot width requirements for the applicable
zoning district but that does have sufficient lot width away from
the lot's frontage ("flag"). Access to the "flag" portion of the lot
from a public street right-of-way or an approved private street right-of-way
is provided by means of a long, narrow access strip ("pole") which
contains a driveway located between abutting lots. See Figure 2-7.
Distance measured along the front lot line. When a lot fronts
on a curved street, the lot frontage shall be determined by utilizing
the arc length. See Figure 2-7.
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LOT TYPE DIAGRAM
 Figure 2-7
|
A lot which is not a corner lot. See Figure 2-7.
A line of record bounding a lot that divides one lot from
another lot or from a legal right-of-way line for a public street
or private street. See Figure 2-8.
A side lot line that coincides with the line created by the
shared party wall between two single-family semidetached dwellings
or two or more single-family attached dwellings.
A lot line separating the front of the lot from the street, measured from the right-of-way. In the case of a corner lot or double-frontage lot, all lot lines which abut a street shall be front lot lines. In the case of a flag lot, see Article XVI of this chapter relating to flag lots. In the case of a reverse-frontage lot, see the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). See Figure 2-8.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
A lot line which does not intersect a front lot line and is most distant from, and most nearly parallel to, a front lot line. In the case of a corner lot, corner lots shall not have a rear lot line. For the purposes of this chapter, where the side lot lines of an interior lot meet in a point, the rear lot line shall be assumed to be a line not less than 10 feet long drawn within the lot between the two side lot lines, which is equidistant to the front lot line. In the case of a flag lot, see Article XVI of this chapter relating to flag lots. In the case of a reverse-frontage lot, see the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). See Figure 2-8.
Any lot line which is not a front or rear lot line. In the case of a corner lot, all lot lines which do not abut a street shall be side lot lines. In the case of a flag lot, see Article XVI of this chapter relating to flag lots. In the case of a reverse-frontage lot, see the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). See Figure 2-8.
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LOT LINE AND YARD DIAGRAM
 Figure 2-8
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See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). See Figure 2-7.
In the case of an interior lot, the distance between the side lot lines. In the case of a corner lot, "lot width" shall mean the distance between each front lot line and its opposite side lot line. Such distance shall be measured along a straight line which is at right angles to the axis of a lot. When a lot abuts on a curved street, the width shall be determined by utilizing the arc length. In the case of a flag lot, see Article XVI of this chapter relating to flag lots. In the case of a reverse-frontage lot, see the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). See Figure 2-7.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
A function or a use involving either the processing, conversion
or production of materials, goods, or products.
An establishment where three or more full-time-equivalent
licensed medical professionals examine and treat patients on an outpatient
basis; and includes a variety of other types of medical service uses,
including but not limited to medical and dental laboratories, specialized
clinics, outpatient care facilities, blood banks, and oxygen and miscellaneous
types of medical services. This use shall not include overnight accommodation
of patients. This use shall also include those establishments commonly
known as ambulatory surgical, urgent, and emergency centers, without
overnight accommodations.
An office where not more than two full-time-equivalent licensed
medical professionals examine and treat patients on an outpatient
basis. This use shall not include overnight accommodation of patients.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning
Code, as amended.
See "self-service storage facility."
[Added 8-13-2018 by Ord.
No. 2018-03]
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended ("mobile home," Article I).
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended ("mobile home lot," Article I).
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended ("mobile home park," Article I).
That part of a mobile/manufactured home lot which is being
reserved for the placement of the mobile/manufactured home.
Pertaining to a local government unit or other similar government
unit.
The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code Act of 1968,
P.L. 805, No. 247, as reenacted and amended.[7]
Any establishment, use, facility, and/or structure that is
owned and/or operated by Lancaster Township, its municipal authorities,
and/or authorized agents.
[Amended 10-8-2018 by Ord. No. 2018-05]
An accessory use, which is clearly secondary to the principal
single-family detached dwelling, in which livestock are kept exclusively
by the residents of the site, and which is not contained upon a farm
nor part of an agricultural operation.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning
Code, as amended.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning
Code, as amended.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning
Code, as amended.
An outdoor furnace that has not been certified or qualified
by the EPA as meeting a particulate matter emission limit of 0.32
pound per million British thermal units (Btu's) output or power and
is labeled accordingly.
An organization or agency which is open and available for
use by the general public, which is operated by a federal, state,
or local governmental body or subdivision or agency thereof, or by
a nonprofit corporation authorized to do business in the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania, to which contributions are tax-deductible for federal
income tax purposes, such as libraries and museums.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Building
Code, as amended. A nursing home shall be licensed by the Department
of Health of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a nursing home.
A building or space within a building used for conducting
the affairs of a business, profession, service, industry, or government.
A residential subdivision development in which a portion
of the total tract of land is designated as open space area, while
greater flexibility and innovation in lot designs and building arrangements
are provided for a more-efficient development pattern on that portion
of the tract most suitable for development.
The most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Zoning
Ordinance, as amended.
A fuel-burning device:
Designed to burn clean wood, coal, natural gas, kerosene, propane,
or domestic heating oil, provided that such fuels comply with all
applicable sulfur limits and are used as starters or supplemental
fuels for dual-fired outdoor furnaces, and other types of fuel approved
in writing by the DEP upon receipt of a written request;
That the manufacturer specifies for outdoor installation or
for installation in structures not normally intended for habitation
by humans or domestic animals, including structures such as garages
and sheds; and
Which heats building space and/or water through the distribution,
typically through pipes, of a fluid heated in the device, typically
water or a mixture of water and antifreeze.
For the purposes of this chapter, the term shall also include
outdoor wood-fired boilers, outdoor wood-fired furnaces, outdoor wood-burning
appliances, or outdoor hydronic heaters, water stoves, etc.
See "lot."
The traveled way of a parking compound through which automobiles
and other similar motor vehicles enter and depart parking spaces.
A common, paved (improved and stabilized) area (other than
a public or private street, access drive, or driveway) used exclusively
for parking of vehicles. This term shall also include related parking
access aisles.
An area consisting of natural or man-made material which
is constructed at or near grade level and intended for use as an outdoor
living area. (See also "deck" and "accessory structure.")
Any use specifically allowed by right in a particular zoning
district.
A structure situated on a lot of three acres or more in which
food, shelter, personal assistance or supervision are provided for
a period exceeding 24 consecutive hours for more than three adults
who are not relatives of the operator and who require assistance or
supervision in matters of dressing, bathing, diet or medication prescribed
for self-administration but do not require hospitalization or care
in a skilled nursing or intermediate care facility, as licensed and
regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DH).
Any surface (area) not defined as impervious. This term shall
also include pervious material.
An outdoor furnace that has been certified or qualified by
the EPA as meeting a particulate matter emission limit of 0.32 pound
per million Btu output and is labeled accordingly. Phase 2 outdoor
furnace models will be identified with a white hang tag.
An establishment wherein persons regularly assemble for:
religious worship and which is maintained and controlled by a religious
body organized to sustain public worship; and/or basic education or
instruction services and which is maintained and controlled by a body
organized to sustain basic education or instruction. It includes a
synagogue, temple, mosque, or other such place for worship and religious
activities, as well as an elementary school, intermediate school,
junior high school, and high school.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I); the Planning Commission of Lancaster Township.
See "principal structure."
The main, primary, or predominant structure on a given lot,
tract, or parcel.
The main, primary, or predominant use of a property or structure.
An organization catering exclusively to members and their
guests; or premises or buildings for a social, recreational, and administrative
purposes which are not conducted for profit, provided there are not
conducted any vending stands, merchandising or commercial activities
except as required for the membership of such club. Clubs shall include
but not be limited to service and political organizations as well
as social and athletic clubs. Private clubs shall not include adult-oriented
establishments, as defined herein.
A function or use involving the cleaning, sorting, sizing,
packaging, or any combination thereof, of products.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
Use or expansion thereof which is operated, owned or maintained
by a public utility corporation, municipality or municipal authority
or which is privately owned and approved by the Pennsylvania Public
Utility Commission (PA PUC).
An establishment on a site involving removal from the surface
or beneath the surface of the land of bulk mineral resources using
significant machinery. This use also includes accessory stockpiling
and processing of mineral resources. The routine movement of and replacement
of topsoil during construction shall not by itself be considered to
be a quarry.
An establishment engaged in operating broadcast studios and
facilities for over-the-air or satellite delivery of radio and television
programs.
A facility operated as a business open to the public for
the purpose of public recreation or entertainment, including but not
limited to bowling alleys, swimming pools, health clubs, miniature
golf courses, etc. This does not include adult-oriented establishments
or amusement arcades, as defined herein.
A nonprofit public facility open to the public for the purpose
of public recreation or entertainment, including but not limited to
bowling alleys, swimming pools, health clubs, miniature golf courses,
etc. This does not include adult-oriented establishments or amusement
arcades, as defined herein.
A vehicle which is:
Built on a single chassis;
Not more than 400 square feet, measured at the largest horizontal
projections;
Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light-duty
truck; and
Not designed for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary
living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
A residential development involving the subdivision of land
which is designed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter
to yield the same general character and dimensions of adjacent, lawfully
existing, nonconforming lots and structures. Residential infill development
is a method of allowing residential growth which is consistent with
nonconforming neighborhoods which existed prior to the effective date
of this chapter.
An establishment where food is prepared and sold for on-
and off-premises consumption. In those establishments where alcohol
is sold, a restaurant is further defined as having total annual food
sales for on-premises consumption greater than 20% of the combined
gross sales of the establishment.
An establishment in which the primary activity involves the
display and retail sale and/or rental of goods and products to the
general public, and/or providing personal service to the general public.
This term shall not include adult-oriented establishments, as defined
herein.
Facilities designated for housing, boarding, and dining,
associated with some level of personal care and other related assistance,
for the elderly who are unable to fully care for themselves and/or
do not desire to live independently.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
A building for the enclosed storage of household items or
area(s) for the storage of recreational equipment where said items
are retained for use by their owner who shall have direct access thereto
without intermediate handling by the proprietor of the facility. Also
includes "storage units," which are rented to tenants, usually on
a short-term basis.
[Added 8-13-2018 by Ord.
No. 2018-03]
The distance between the building line and any lot line.
See "building setback line."
A group of two or more businesses involved in retail sales/services,
offices, restaurants, and other similar uses permitted within the
applicable zoning district, located either within a coordinated grouping
of buildings which may be joined together by an open or closed pedestrian
mall or within a single building, and with shared parking.
A group of two or more businesses involved in retail sales/services,
offices, and other similar uses permitted within the applicable zoning
district, that meet the daily and convenience-related needs such as
food, hardware, drugs, and personal services, located within a single
building, and with shared parking.
A portion of a single-family detached dwelling that operates as or offers a place of temporary accommodation, lodging or occupancy by concession, permit, lease, license, rental agreement, or similar commercial arrangement, for overnight stay for any period of not more than 30 consecutive calendar days during any part of the calendar year. "Short-term rental unit" is inclusive of accommodations commonly referred to as "bed-and-breakfasts," "vacation rentals," "homestays," "tourist homes" and the like which may be offered for occupancy on platforms such as VRBO and Airbnb. "Short-term accommodation" shall not mean or include a residential use with support services, or "visitor accommodations" (motel, hotel), or "boardinghouses," as defined in Article II of this chapter.
[Added 11-14-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-02]
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See Article XII of this chapter relating to sign regulations.
An organization offering aid to persons requiring assistance
for psychological problems, employment opportunities, health and physical
ailments, learning disabilities, and other circumstances.
A solar energy system that supplies energy primarily for
off-site/off-premises use.
An alternative energy system which includes any solar collector
consisting of one or more cell(s), panel(s), or array(s) designed
to collect and convert solar power into another form of energy, such
as electricity or heat, and other structures and buildings used in
the conversion, storage, and distribution, including electrical infrastructure,
transmission lines, and other appurtenant structures and facilities.
An area where municipal solid waste and similar materials
are deposited on land, compacted, covered with soil and then compacted
again, and which has a permit from the DEP to operate as a sanitary
landfill.
A device (located at the top of a chimney) to prevent sparks,
embers or other ignited material above a given size from begin expelled
to the atmosphere.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Building
Code, as amended.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I), and the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). For purposes of this chapter, streets and roads shall conform to one of the following categories:
PRINCIPAL ARTERIAL ROADSee the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
MINOR ARTERIAL ROADSee the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
COLLECTOR ROADSee the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
LOCAL ROADSee the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
A line that divides and delineates an existing or proposed
street right-of-way from an existing or proposed lot.
The visual impression of the built environment along a street
created by building setbacks, rooflines, building mass, architectural
styles and elements, building materials and texture, patterns of fenestration,
sidewalks, signage, trees and landscaping.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
An establishment where alcohol is sold that has total annual
food sales for on-premises consumption of less than or equal to 20%
of the combined gross sales of the establishment.
Lancaster Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
The attorney, licensed to practice in the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, employed by the Township, or engaged as a consultant
to the Township, to furnish professional legal assistance.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Building
Code, as amended.
See the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II).
The distance measured from the highest point of the wind
turbine rotor plane to the ground level.
An allocation of space within a building or structure that
is independent of other such space and that constitutes a separate
use. This shall include both fee-simple ownership and leaseholds.
An establishment wherein persons regularly assemble for general
or specialized higher education or instruction services leading to
a degree, and which is maintained and controlled by a body organized
to sustain general or specialized higher education or instruction;
an establishment primarily engaged in furnishing courses and granting
degrees. The requirement for admission is at least a high school diploma
or equivalent basic academic training. Instruction may be provided
in diverse settings, such as the establishment's or client's training
facilities, educational institutions, and/or the workplace, and through
diverse means, such as correspondence, television, the Internet, or
other electronic and distance learning methods. The training provided
by these establishments may include the use of simulators and simulation
methods.
The specific purpose for which land, sign, structure or building
is designed, arranged, intended or for which it may be occupied or
maintained, or any activity, occupation, business or operation which
may be carried on.
See the most-recent version of the Municipalities Planning Code, as amended (Article I).
A building used primarily for the treatment, by a veterinarian,
of small domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds
or fowl and livestock. No outdoor boarding of animals is permitted.
An establishment offering temporary overnight lodging accommodations for less than 30 days, but may also offer meal service and entertainment, to transient guests, visitors, or tourists for compensation. It includes facilities commonly known as "hotels" and "motels," but excludes "dwelling units," "boardinghouses," "bed-and-breakfasts," and "short-term rental units" as defined in Article II of this chapter.
[Amended 11-14-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-02]
An establishment involving the storage, wholesale, and/or
distribution of manufactured products, supplies, and equipment, but
excluding bulk storage of materials that are inflammable or explosive
or that create a hazard or are commonly recognized offensive conditions,
and also excluding any heavy equipment or truck washing, servicing
and/or repair, unless such uses are specifically permitted in that
zoning district. Wholesaling of products, supplies and equipment shall
not be open to or accessible by the general public, unless incidental
to the principal warehousing operation.
All the land from which water flows into a particular point
in a watercourse.
Any distribution procedure involving persons who, in the
normal course of business, do not engage in sales to the general public.
A wind energy system direct-current generator used for charging
storage batteries.
A wind energy system that supplies energy primarily for off-site/off-premises
use.
A device, such as a wind charger, wind turbine, or other
electric generation facility, designed to convert wind power into
another form of energy, such as electricity or heat, and which consists
of one or more wind turbines and other structures and buildings, including
meteorological towers, electrical infrastructure, transmission lines,
and other appurtenant structures and facilities.
A device that runs on the energy generated by a wheel of
adjustable blades or slats rotated by the wind.
A device that converts wind energy into electricity through
the use of a wind turbine generator, and includes the nacelle, rotor,
tower and pad transformer, if any.
The vertical component of a wind energy system that elevates
the wind turbine generator and attached blades above the ground.
An open space that lies between the principal building or
buildings and the nearest lot line. The minimum required yard as set
forth in this chapter is unobstructed from the ground upward, except
as may be specifically provided in this chapter. Distances which represent
minimum yards throughout this chapter shall include all portions of
a lot which are within such distances as measured at right angles
from the respective lot line. Porches and carports shall be considered
a part of the building. Overhanging eaves, gutters and cornices shall
not be considered an infringement of the yard requirements. See Figure
2-8.
FRONT YARDA space extending the full width of the lot between any building and the front lot line and measured between the front lot line and the building line nearest the front lot line. In the case of a corner lot, corner lots shall have two front yards. In the case of a flag lot, see Article XVI of this chapter relating to flag lots. In the case of a reverse-frontage lot, see the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). See Figure 2-8.
REAR YARDA space extending across the full width of the lot between the principal building and the rear lot line and measured between the rear lot line and the building line nearest the rear lot line. In the case of a corner lot, corner lots shall not have a rear yard. In the case of a flag lot, see Article XVI of this chapter relating to flag lots. In the case of a reverse-frontage lot, see the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). See Figure 2-8.
SIDE YARDA space extending from the front yard to the rear yard between the principal building and the side lot line and measured between the side lot line and the building line nearest the side lot line. In the case of a corner lot, the side yard is the area between the principal building and the side lot line, exclusive of all front yards. In the case of a flag lot, see Article XVI of this chapter relating to flag lots. In the case of a reverse-frontage lot, see the most-recent version of the Lancaster Township Subdivision, Land Development and Stormwater Management Ordinance, as amended (Article II). See Figure 2-8.
A permit stating that the purpose for which a building or
land is to be used is in conformity with the use permitted and all
other requirements under this chapter for the zoning district in which
it is located or is to be located.
The municipal official designated to administer and enforce
this chapter. The Zoning Officer shall administer this chapter in
accordance with its literal terms.
As used in this chapter, the following abbreviations shall have
the meanings indicated:
The Federal Insurance Administration (FIA), or any successor
agency.
The Lancaster County Conservation District, or any successor
agency.
The Lancaster County Planning Commission, or any successor
agency.
The Lancaster Inter-Municipal Committee, or any successor
agency.
The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code Act of 1968,
P.L. 805, No. 247, as reenacted and amended.[1]
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection,
or any successor agency.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health, or any successor agency.
The Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare, or any successor
agency.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, or any successor
agency.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission, or any successor agency.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, or any successor
agency.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, or any successor
agency.
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission, or any successor
agency.
The United States Army Corps of Engineers, or any successor
agency.
The United States Department of Agriculture, or any successor
agency.
The United States Geological Survey, or any successor agency.
[1]
Editor's Note: See 53 P.S. § 10101 et seq.
