[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 801]
1.ย
Intent. The intent of this Part is to ensure that any potential negative
impacts associated with certain development activities are properly
identified and mitigated by providing a forum for discussions between
the applicant and the municipality.
2.ย
Purpose. In instances where a pre-submission conference is required,
a meeting between the municipal staff and the applicant shall be held
prior to the submission of a formal plan. The owner, equitable owner,
and/or the owner's agent shall request such a conference with the
Municipal Zoning Officer, the purpose of which shall be as follows:
A.ย
To allow the petitioner to submit unofficial preliminary studies
of the concept of the proposed development for tentative review, comments
and recommendations.
B.ย
To review this chapter as it may relate to the proposed development.
C.ย
To determine whether the proposal may have an undue adverse impact
on the surrounding neighborhood.
D.ย
To identify strategies to mitigate such impacts.
3.ย
Pre-submission Conference. The applicant shall, at a minimum, present
a sketch plan detailing the development proposal and a document identifying
potential impacts and detailing a strategy to mitigate said impacts.
The municipality may identify other potential impacts to be addressed
prior to plan approval.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 802]
1.ย
Intent. The following conditions are intended to provide motor vehicle
access regulations to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the
municipality.
2.ย
General Regulations. Every building hereafter erected or moved shall
be on a lot adjacent to a public street or with motor vehicle access
to a private street. The intent of the following regulations is to
provide safe and convenient access for servicing, fire protection,
traffic circulation and required off-street parking:
A.ย
On arterial streets, access for each lot shall be limited to not
more than two driveways for the first 300 feet of frontage or fraction
thereof and one driveway for each additional 300 feet of frontage.
On all other streets, access shall be provided by not more than one
driveway for the first 50 feet of frontage or fraction thereof and
one driveway for each additional 50 feet of frontage.
B.ย
No driveway shall be closer to the side or rear property line than
five feet, unless the two adjoining property owners mutually agree
to a common driveway in such form and manner acceptable for recording
in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Centre County, Pennsylvania,
binding their heirs and assigns to the easement so created.
C.ย
Driveways which provide access individually to single-family and
two family dwellings on individual lots shall have a throat width
of not less than 10 feet or greater than 20 feet and curb returns
are not required. A single driveway which provides joint access to
no more than two dwelling units on an individual lot shall have a
throat width of not less than 15 feet nor greater than 24 feet and
curb returns are not required. Driveways which provide access to all
uses other than single-family and two-family dwellings shall have
a throat width of not less than 15 feet or greater than 24 feet and
the curb return radius shall not be less than 13 feet or greater than
55 feet.
D.ย
In the R-4, HC, IC, LI, and HI Districts, all driveways shall enter
a public street right-of-way at least 100 feet from its intersection
with another public street, except for intersections of two or more
arterial streets, in which case the minimum distance shall be at least
200 feet. In all other districts, all driveways shall enter a public
street right-of-way at least 50 feet from its intersection with another
public street of any classification. For all cases cited above, the
distance in which access is prohibited shall be measured from the
tangent of the curb return of the intersecting street cart way to
the tangent of the curb return of the driveway.
E.ย
Distance Between Driveways.
(1)ย
When the use on a lot is single-family detached dwelling, single-family
semidetached dwellings, two-family detached dwellings or two-family
semidetached dwellings, and if two or more driveways of the same lot,
any of which serve more than one dwelling, enter a public street right-of-way,
the distance between the entrances of the driveways shall be at least
50 feet, measured between the inner edges of the driveway.
(2)ย
When the use on a lot is other than single-family detached dwelling,
single-family semidetached dwellings, two-family detached dwellings,
or two family semidetached dwellings, and if two or more driveways
of the same lot enter a public street right-of-way, the distance between
the entrances of the driveways shall be at least 75 feet measured
between the inner edges of the driveway.
(3)ย
Driveways to corner lots or through lots shall gain access from
the street of lower classification when the lot is bound by streets
of two different classifications.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 803; as amended by Ord.
2009-02, 4/6/2009; and by Ord. 2012-04, 5/7/2012]
1.ย
Intent. It is the intent of this section to:
A.ย
Ensure adequate parking and loading facilities to serve the use or
uses of the property.
B.ย
Ensure that any parking facility is designed so as to provide proper
circulation, reduce hazards to pedestrians, and protect the users
of adjoining properties from nuisance created by the use of the facility.
C.ย
Reduce congestion in the streets and contribute to traffic safety.
D.ย
Encourage shared parking facilities and alternative modes of travel
that will reduce overall impervious coverage and reduce dependence
on the single-occupancy automobile.
2.ย
Application. Off-street parking and loading space shall be provided
and maintained for each use and structure hereafter established, erected,
altered or extended in accordance with the provisions of this section.
3.ย
General Regulations.
A.ย
Use. All required off-street parking spaces shall be used solely
for the parking of motor vehicles by residents, visitors, patrons
or employees.
B.ย
Location. It is the intent of this chapter that required parking
spaces shall be located on the same lot as the use they serve, except
as provided for in the shared parking provisions of this section.
(1)ย
If the required off-street parking spaces cannot be reasonably
provided on the same lot as the building it serves, such spaces may
be provided on other property located adjacent to the subject lot.
(2)ย
Fractional Parking Spaces in Multi-family, Duplex and Townhouse
Residential Developments. In multi-family, duplex and townhouse residential
developments, all fractional parking spaces required (.50 spaces per
unit) shall be provided for within the development and shall not be
associated with any particular dwelling unit of the development.
C.ย
In all instances, the total number of spaces provided shall not be
less than the sum of spaces required for all the uses.
D.ย
Means of pedestrian access from the parking space to the uses they
serve shall be provided such that pedestrians are not required to
traverse property owned by other than said property owners, except
where public sidewalks may provide the access. Pedestrians shall not
be required to cross an arterial street except at a signalized intersection
along the pedestrian pathway.
E.ย
A lease, easement or other form of agreement be executed among said
property owners assuring use of the required parking spaces are located
on the same lot as the use they serve, and recorded in the office
for the recording of deeds of Centre County.
F.ย
Unless utilizing the shared parking provisions on adjoining parcels,
all parking spaces and lots open to the sky (i.e., not in garages
or carports) shall be located no closer than 10 feet to any property
line except for the Highway Commercial and Interchange Commercial
which shall be located no closer than 30 feet from the property line.
G.ย
All covered parking spaces and lots, including garages and carports,
shall not be located within any yard setback area.
H.ย
For any lot of record at the time of adoption of this subsection
which is divided by a zoning line and where said zoning line separates
commercial and residential zones, the owner of such lot may use the
area of the lot which is zoned residential to locate the parking required
or proposed for the commercially zoned portion of the lot. If the
owner elects to use the area zoned residential for parking, such parking
area shall not be within 100 feet of any property line adjacent to
the residential zoned portion. All other parking regulations for commercial
areas shall apply.
I.ย
In order to promote and provide for more flexibility within the current
zoning regulations and to maintain an aesthetically pleasing visual
appearance of both the road corridor and individual businesses and
properties, the front yard parking setback area for general commercial
districts (HC, IC) may be reduced by 10 feet, at the discretion of
the municipal governing body, by reducing the maximum impervious surface
coverage ratio by 5%. This reduction may only be permitted when the
developer can demonstrate to the municipal governing body the following:
(1)ย
That the reduction in setbacks and impervious area will allow
the developer to provide open space in sensitive areas, such as wetlands
and steep slopes, or to provide additional buffing to adjacent properties.
(2)ย
That the reduction is not requested solely to help enhance the
visibility or desirability of the business.
J.ย
Parking of self-propelled motor vehicles (not including recreational
vehicles) is prohibited on the lawn or in yard areas for all residential
uses in all districts except for the rural zoning districts. This
does not include the incidental parking of vehicles for washing or
cleaning.
4.ย
Provisions to Reduce Required Off-Street Parking Spaces. In an effort
to reduce impervious coverage, traffic congestion and allow an increase
in landscaped green space area and/or building size, the following
shall be considered:
A.ย
Shared parking spaces that are accessible by neighboring properties
or uses may be permitted when use of the spaces does not occur during
the same daily time period. The applicant must provide justification
showing calculations of the peak parking use for the spaces that would
have overlapping users, during their respective hours of operation.
The hours of operation must show that sufficient spaces would be available
for the shared parking purpose. As a result, the number of parking
spaces could be reduced no more than 1/2 of the total required for
the particular use(s) participating in shared parking. Should the
use change in the future, and its associated off-street parking, the
parking must be provided as required or shared additional parking
be pursued.
B.ย
When increasing the passengers per vehicle to sites with high employment
would decrease parking demand, relief in the required parking spaces
may occur. The parking spaces may be reduced by a factor of 25% if
the applicant for land development plan approval provides a transportation
management program to utilize one or a combination of the following
modes to reduce single occupant vehicles that is based on substantiated
projections of reduction in demand:
C.ย
To qualify for the above, the applicant must provide evidence to
the approval of the municipal governing body that:
(1)ย
The applicant shall establish an approved carpooling program.
(2)ย
Applicant will obtain or lease to qualified employees vans,
buses or the high passenger-capacity vehicles, for the purpose of
providing transportation of additional passengers (vanpooling).
(3)ย
Applicant will operate or hire vans, buses or other high passenger
capacity vehicles to provide exclusive or non-exclusive commuter transportation
of employees from residential areas, other transit terminals, such
as park and ride.
(4)ย
Applicant shall contribute to the public bus service to add
routes, shelter, amenities or fare contribution that would be generated
by those employees to utilize the bus service.
D.ย
Additionally, programs to increase vanpooling and carpooling, are
examples that follow:
(1)ย
Applicant will employ working day policy known as flextime where
employees are given some latitude on starting and quitting times.
(2)ย
Applicant will provide adequate lunch facilities on the site.
(3)ย
Applicant will provide preferential parking.
As a part of the request to reduce parking spaces, the applicant
shall show to the satisfaction of the municipal governing body that
the actions proposed shall reduce the parking demand by the amount
requested.
|
E.ย
At the option of the approval by the municipal governing body, a
reduction of off-street parking spaces may be considered as follows
that would pertain only to parking at the site fronting arterial and/or
highway roads:
(1)ย
The buffer yard in the front contains unique natural features
as determined by the municipal governing body that may require an
area to be wider than the minimum front buffer.
(2)ย
The buffer yard in the front contains features that contribute
to the community character of the municipality as determined by the
governing body that may require an area to be wider than the minimum
front buffer.
(3)ย
The requirements of a corridor overlay zone that may provide
for a wider than minimum buffer.
(4)ย
Opportunities to preserve stands of existing trees using creative
landscaping designs would be helpful to enhance the appearance of
pedestrian areas, as well as breaking up the monotony of a large lot.
The Planning Commission may recommend and the governing body may approve
the reduction in off-street parking spaces associated with increasing
the front buffer yard. The area removed from parking must be sufficient
to provide the required parking. The area removed from parking may
be returned to parking at a future date should the operator of the
use experience a parking shortage based on demand after the use has
been in operation for a period exceeding two years. The requirement
of land development plan submission and approval must follow in order
to return the area to parking.
F.ย
Non-shared Parking Provisions for Reduced Parking Requirements. On
the approval by the municipal governing body, a maximum 25% reduction
in off-street parking spaces for developments within the Light Industrial
(LI) and Heavy Industrial (HI) districts may be considered when such
developments will not utilize a shared parking option with the following
conditions:
(1)ย
Area suitable for construction of the reduced parking spaces
shall be set aside for future development of these parking spaces
only, said area to be detailed on an approved plan. Stormwater, impervious
calculations, grading and lighting shall all be detailed on the plan.
(2)ย
Developer shall agree in writing that such parking spaces will
be installed within 180 days upon written request by the Township.
5.ย
Existing Facilities. Parking spaces and lots serving structures and
uses in existence at the date of the adoption of this chapter shall
not be subject to the requirements of this section as long as the
kind or extent of use is not changed; provided, that any parking facility
now serving such structures or uses shall not in the future be reduced
below such requirements, or if already below such requirements, be
reduced further.
6.ย
Change in Requirements. Whenever there is an alteration or extension
of a use or structure which increases the parking requirements according
to the parking calculation requirements below, the total additional
parking required for the alteration or extension shall be provided
in accordance with the requirements of that subsection.
7.ย
Construction. All required off-street parking spaces, aisles, and
driveways shall be paved with an all-weather material. For spaces
and aisles which are not part of a parking lot as herein defined,
this may include gravel or other crushed stone. However, for parking
lots, the paving material shall be limited to asphalt, concrete or
similar hard surface material with all parking spaces designated with
a four-inch contrasting stripe painted the entire length of each space
in accordance with the dimensional requirements stipulated below.
All required off-street parking spaces and aisles for private recreational
areas shall be constructed with six inches of crushed and compacted
stone. Private and/or public recreation areas shall be exempt from
such other construction regulations.
8.ย
Required Off-Street Parking Spaces. All uses and structures shall
provide off-street parking spaces in an amount equal to, or greater
than, the number listed below. The total number of parking spaces
necessary for two or more uses on the same lot shall be the sum of
that required for each use.
A.ย
Dimensions. Each required off-street parking space shall be at least
9.5 feet wide and 18 feet long if set at an angle to the access aisle
or eight feet wide and 24 feet long if parallel to the access aisle.
B.ย
Number and Computation. In computing the required number of spaces,
all fractional numbers shall be increased to the next highest integer.
When computation is based on the number of employees, the number employed
during the largest work shift shall be used.
Table of Required Parking Spaces per Use
|
(1)ย
Residential Uses.
Use
|
Parking Spaces Required (per dwelling unit unless otherwise
noted)
|
---|---|
Single-family detached dwelling unit (on a lot less than 10,000
square feet)
|
2 spaces
|
Single-family detached dwelling unit (on a lot 10,000 square
feet or greater)
|
3 spaces
|
Duplex
|
2.5 spaces
|
Townhouse
|
2.5 spaces
|
Multi-family
|
2.5 spaces
|
Age restricted housing (55 and older; any type)
|
1 space per unit (plus additional spaces based on office and
other service areas if applicable)
|
Group home
|
1 space per 300 square feet gross floor area
|
Personal care boarding home
|
1 space per unit
|
(2)ย
Commercial Uses. Any portion of a building used for office,
repair/service, retail, and restaurants require parking as pertains
to that individual use, as if it were a freestanding use.
Use
|
Parking Spaces Required (spaces per gross floor area unless
otherwise noted)
|
---|---|
Retail (general)
|
1 space per 200 square feet
|
Supermarket/grocery stores
|
1 space per 200 square feet
|
Furniture, appliance, carpet, musical instrument stores
|
1 space per 350 square feet
|
Sales of construction equipment, farm equipment, feed, boat
and marine vehicles, mobile/motor-home vehicles, motor vehicles, and
monument, burial vault and casket sales
|
1 space per 350 square feet of office, sales, and service area
plus I space per 3,000 square feet of outside sales area
|
Automobile service station
|
1 space per pump, 6 spaces per repair/service bay, and additional
spaces based on retail space
|
Barbers and beauticians
|
2 spaces per chair
|
Car wash
|
4 spaces per stall, plus 1 space per vacuum if applicable
|
Funeral home
|
1 space per 3 seats based on maximum building occupancy
|
Bowling alley, miniature golf course
|
5 spaces per alley, 2 spaces per golf tee
|
Billiard parlors, amusement enterprises
|
2 spaces per table or machine
|
Business, professional, and financial offices (including mail
order)
|
1 space per 250 square feet
|
Medical, dental, and veterinary offices/hospitals
|
1 space per 200 square feet
|
Arenas, stadiums, auditoriums, theaters, dance halls
|
1 space per 4 fixed seats; otherwise 1 space per 4 persons based
on maximum building occupancy
|
Eating and drinking establishments/caterers
|
1 space per 50 square feet or inside seating area, plus 1 space
per 100 square feet of outside seating area
|
Hotels or motels
|
1.2 spaces per room
|
Radio and/or television studios
|
1 space per 250 square feet
|
Post office
|
1 space per 200 square feet
|
Mining and quarrying
|
1 space per 250 square feet of office use
|
Horse riding stables and academies
|
1 space per 2 stalls
|
Animal kennels
|
1 space per 500 square feet
|
Cemeteries
|
1 space per 350 square feet of public area in mausoleum or similar
structure
|
Shoe repair, tailors, seamstresses
|
1 space per 200 square feet
|
Public and private garages for the storage of motor vehicles
|
1 space per 250 square feet of office
|
Tanning salon
|
1 space per bed
|
Laundromat
|
1 space per 3 washers or dryers
|
Rural agricultural service establishments
|
1 space per 250 square feet
|
Greenhouses open to the public
|
1 space per 250 square feet of sales area
|
(3)ย
Industrial Uses. Any portion of a building used for office,
repair/service, retail and restaurants require the parking as pertains
to that individual use, as if it were a freestanding use, in addition
to the following:
Use
|
Parking Spaces Required (spaces per gross floor area unless
otherwise noted)
|
---|---|
All industrial uses except those specified below
|
1 space per 350 square feet plus 1 space per 1,000 square feet
of outdoor operations (excluding storage)
|
Auto wrecking, junk and scrap establishments
|
1 space per 5,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor storage area
plus required office/repair/service area
|
Freight and trucking terminals, moving and storage, parcel delivery
and express transfer stations, depots and wholesale distribution warehouses
|
1 space per 2,000 square feet
|
(4)ย
Public, Quasi-Public, and Transportation Uses. Any portion of
a building used for office, repair/service, retail and restaurants
require the parking as pertains to that individual use, as if it were
a freestanding use, in addition to the following:
Use
|
Parking Spaces Required (spaces per gross floor area unless
otherwise noted)
|
---|---|
Ambulance, emergency, fire and rescue, taxi and limousine service
|
2 spaces per vehicle plus 1 space per 350 square feet
|
Bus passenger station (park and ride lots, vanpooling lots,
etc.)
|
1 space per 200 square feet of gross flour area or lot area
sufficient to support program
|
Child daycare center
|
1 space per 350 square feet (minimum of 3)
|
Churches and other places of worship
|
1 space per 4 seats based on maximum occupancy
|
Clubs, lodges, fraternal organizations, community centers, health
and athletic clubs, studios for instruction in music, performing arts,
photographic and craft studios, martial arts, dance, and gymnastics
facilities
|
1 space per 3 persons based on maximum occupancy
|
Gulf courses and driving ranges
|
4 spaces per hole, 2 spaces per tee on driving ranges
|
Hospital
|
1 space per 400 square feet
|
Nursing homes, personal care homes, and other convalescent homes
|
1 space per room
|
Libraries, museums, art galleries, government buildings
|
1 space per 500 square feet with bus/van parking areas of 1
space per 2,000 square feet (apply auditorium standards to auditorium
areas)
|
Institutions of higher education, high schools, vocational/technical
and business training schools
|
1 space per 300 square feet for classrooms, offices, cafeteria,
plus additional spaces based on components (e.g., arena, theater,
etc.)
|
Nursery, kindergarten, elementary, and middle schools
|
1 space per 1,000 square feet
|
Private recreation areas
|
25 spaces per established field/activity area
|
(5)ย
Agricultural, Forest, Conservation Uses. All parking areas within
this zone are permitted to be gravel.
Use
|
Parking Spaces Required (spaces per gross floor area unless
otherwise noted)
|
---|---|
Archery range
|
1 space per target
|
Rifle or pistol range
|
1 space per stand or shooting bench
|
Skeet or shotgun range
|
1 space per shooting station
|
Campground
|
1 space per site, 1 space per picnic table, plus additional
spaces based on components (e.g., cafeteria, recreation building,
etc.)
|
Seasonal dwellings
|
2 spaces per dwelling
|
C.ย
Handicapped Parking. The size and number of these spaces shall be
required as specified in the International Building Code and/or ADA
requirements. The signage for each space must contain the handicapped
symbol, state that violators will be towed or fined and the minimum
and maximum fine.
9.ย
Parking Lots. For the purposes of this chapter, parking lots are
defined as facilities providing off-street parking space for five
or more motor vehicles. All parking lots shall meet the design and
maintenance standards specified below. All applications for a zoning
permit to use land, in whole or in part, as a parking lot as herein
defined shall be accompanied by a land development plan.
A.ย
Dimensions. All parking spaces shall comply with the dimensions specified
in Subsection 8A above. The minimum dimensions of all aisles providing
access to parking lot spaces shall be as follows:
Angle of Parking Space to Aisle
(in degrees)
|
Aisle Width
(in feet)
| ||
---|---|---|---|
One Way
|
Two Way
| ||
Parallel
|
12
|
20
| |
30 (150)
|
12
|
20
| |
45 (135)
|
15
|
20
| |
60 (120)
|
18
|
20
| |
90
|
24
|
24
|
No portion of any parking space shall intrude into the required
aisle width. For aisles providing access to parking spaces set at
angles other than those specified above, the required aisle width
shall be that of the nearest specified angle of parking. If equidistant
from specified angles, the greatest aisle width of the two nearest
angles shall apply.
|
B.ย
Obstructions. Parking lots shall be designed to permit each motor
vehicle to proceed to and from all unoccupied parking spaces without
requiring the moving of any other parked motor vehicle.
C.ย
Ingress and Egress. Entrance and exit driveways and aisles linking
parking lots to public streets shall comply with the standards for
motor vehicle access stipulated in the "Motor Vehicle Access" section
of this chapter. Parking spaces shall be designed to prevent motor
vehicles from backing onto a public street in order to leave the lot.
10.ย
Loading Regulations. Space for the loading and unloading of vehicles
shall be provided when required below. Each required space shall be
at least 12 feet in width, 45 feet in length and have a vertical clearance
of at least 14 feet. Spaces shall be located no closer than 10 feet
from a public right-of-way and five feet from any other lot line and
shall be paved with an all-weather material.
A.ย
One off-street loading space is required for all nonresidential uses
with a floor area of at least 5,000 square feet but less than 20,000
square feet or more, one additional space shall be provided for each
additional 20,000 square feet or fraction thereof.
B.ย
Required off-street parking spaces shall not be used for loading
and unloading purposes except during hours when business operations
are suspended.
C.ย
All required loading and unloading spaces shall be located on the
same property as the use they serve.
11.ย
Parking for Vehicles for Sale or Rental and for Vehicle Storage.
Motor vehicles, motorcycles, mobile homes, recreational vehicles,
boats and marine craft, held for sale or rental, may be displayed
or stored only in accordance with the terms of this subsection:
A.ย
Motor vehicles, motorcycles, mobile homes, recreational vehicles,
boats and marine craft held for sale or rental may be displayed or
stored only on the lot of the principal place of business of the owner
of the sale or rental business or on an adjacent separate lot, but
only if the adjacent separate lot is used for no other purpose than
the display or storage of said items.
B.ย
All areas used for such display or storage must be located in accordance
with the setback requirements set forth in this chapter for parking
lots. All screening required of parking lots shall apply to display
and storage parking areas.
C.ย
Areas used for display or storage of said items must be constructed
of an impervious surface, unless a pervious surface is approved by
the municipal engineer and, in both cases, in accordance with the
specifications of the municipal engineer.
D.ย
Areas used for display or storage of said items may not be used in
calculating required off-street parking.
E.ย
No motor vehicle, motorcycle, mobile home, recreational vehicle,
boat or marine craft may be displayed or stored in an area or manner
other than set forth on an approved land development plan.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 804; as amended by Ord.
2009-02, 4/6/2009; and by Ord. 2012-04, 5/7/2012]
1.ย
Intent. The intent of this section is to provide landscaping requirements
which:
A.ย
Enhance and promote the image of the community.
B.ย
Protect the public health, safety and welfare by:
(1)ย
Screening and buffering incompatible land uses.
(2)ย
Minimizing noise, air, water, dust and visual pollution.
(3)ย
Preserving property values and the character of neighborhoods.
(4)ย
Reducing the heat and glare absorbed and radiated by development.
(5)ย
Helping control soil erosion.
(6)ย
Increasing traffic safety.
C.ย
Increase the variety of plant materials used in landscape plans.
D.ย
Improve the aesthetics of the site through seasonal diversity of
plantings.
2.ย
General Requirements.
A.ย
Required buffers shall be reserved solely for open space and landscaping.
No proposed building addition, structure, parking area or any other
type of physical land improvement shall be located in a required buffer;
provided, that driveways or roads may cross required buffers if necessary
to provide access to the building site. Sidewalks, bikeways and pedestrian
paths may also be located within required buffers.
B.ย
All selected trees and shrubs must be listed on the official municipal
plant list.
C.ย
All landscaping, trees and planting materials adjacent to parking
areas, loading areas or driveways shall be properly protected by barriers,
curbs or other means from damage by vehicles. In addition, the tree
or shrub shall be planted a minimum of three feet from any curb.
D.ย
Plant materials with seasonal diversity should be selected and distributed
throughout the site.
3.ย
Conflicting Requirements. In the event that one or more of the subsections
of this section, is applicable and there is a conflict among them,
the more restrictive subsection requirement shall apply.
4.ย
Landscaping Plan. When a site or land development plan requires the
installation of landscaping, subject to the requirements of this section,
a landscaping plan shall be submitted along with the site or land
development plan. The landscaping plan shall show the following:
A.ย
The location of all buffer yards and planting areas shall be graphically
depicted.
B.ย
The plan must graphically depict the distribution, mature height
and spread of all required plant materials. The official municipal
plant list shows the plant height and spread which is to be used for
each plant species.
C.ย
The plan must show a table which identifies the required and proposed
number of each plant species being provided for each type of buffer,
screen or other use (i.e., the number of plants within each flexible
buffer yard, corridor overlay buffer, parking lot, general site).
The table shall also identify the botanical and common name of each
plant, the mature height and spread and the symbol used for the plant.
D.ย
The plan must identify the specific size and species of materials,
both vegetative and fencing, which will be used for screening of trash
collection and storage areas.
5.ย
Maintenance.
A.ย
The owner or his agent shall be responsible for the maintenance,
repair and replacement of all landscaping materials and screening
fences or walls to maintain conformance with the landscaping requirements.
B.ย
Any plant material that is 25% dead or more shall be considered dead
and must be replaced.
C.ย
Replacements shall be made during the first spring or fall planting
season following the death of the plants.
D.ย
Replacements shall be of the same size and type (canopy, understory,
shrub) of plant as shown on the plan.
E.ย
All parking lots and buffer yards shall be kept free of litter and
trash.
6.ย
Standards. All landscape material planted shall meet or exceed the
following standards at the time of planting:
A.ย
All canopy trees shall reach a minimum height of 20 feet at maturity
and shall have a caliper of at least two inches at planting. Canopy
trees are to be planted such that the majority of the canopy is located
on the site of the applicant's land development.
B.ย
All evergreen trees shall reach a minimum height of 20 feet at maturity
and shall be a minimum of six feet tall at planting.
C.ย
All understory trees shall reach a minimum height of 10 feet at maturity
and shall have a caliper of 1ย 1/2 inches at planting.
D.ย
All deciduous or evergreen shrubs used for general or parking lot
landscaping must be a minimum of two gallons at planting.
E.ย
Where the plantings identified in Subsections 6A through 6D immediately
above, would result in an inappropriate or impractical design due
to underground utilities, overhead wires or other factors, the following
substitutions may be made:
7.ย
Use of Existing Vegetation.
A.ย
Where an existing hedgerow or forested area is located within a proposed
buffer yard, the use of existing vegetation is encouraged, to the
extent that a suitable buffer will be provided. One existing canopy
tree of at least four-inch caliper may be substituted for one new
tree. The existing tree must be listed on the municipality's Official
Plant List or approved substitution list.
B.ย
Existing understory trees and shrubs may be substituted for new understory
trees or shrubs. The existing trees and shrubs must be listed on the
municipality's Official Plant List.
C.ย
In an area where the canopy trees will not allow for the planting
and growth of understory trees, four shrubs could be planted in lieu
of each required understory tree.
D.ย
Prior to plan approval, the plan for tree substitution must be verified
by the Zoning Officer.
8.ย
Preservation of Existing Vegetation. Existing site vegetative tree
growth of four inches trunk diameter or larger is encouraged.
9.ย
Use of Existing Features. Lots separated by a bona fide drainage
way, creek way or stream channel may not substitute such condition
for a portion of any corresponding buffer yard width.
10.ย
Screening of Trash Collection and Storage Areas. All trash collection
and storage areas shall be screened from all adjoining properties
and streets with vegetative materials and/or fences of at least eight
feet in height at the time of installation.
11.ย
Access and Visibility. No tree, shrub, fence, wall or similar item
shall be installed in the sight triangle of any corner, street intersection
or accessway intersecting a public right-of-way that would cause an
obstruction to visibility.
12.ย
Flexible Buffer Yard.
A.ย
Purpose. Flexible buffer yards are intended to aid the municipality
in protecting the community character by separating incompatible uses
between adjacent zoning districts. The purpose of the flexible buffer
yard requirements is to alleviate problems which could be encountered
by a single standard. The requirements of this section can reasonably
accommodate the characteristics of each site and the range of land
uses.
B.ย
Procedure. The following procedure shall be used to determine the
type of buffer yard required between two uses located on separate
but abutting parcels:
(1)ย
Step One. Identify the land use classification of the proposed
use and of all existing uses located on separate adjoining lots by
referring to the Land Use Intensity Classification Chart as follows:
Land Use Intensity Classification Chart
| |
---|---|
Group I
| |
Agricultural
| |
Single-Family Detached Residential Uses
| |
Duplex Residential Uses
| |
Nonagricultural Residential Lot
| |
Stormwater Detention Basin
| |
Group II
| |
Public/Private Recreation Areas
| |
Townhouses, Multifamily Housing other than Duplexes
| |
Churches and other places of worship
| |
Schools
| |
Group III
| |
Commercial Uses
| |
Group IV
| |
Industrial Uses
| |
All uses not identified in Groups I, II or III. If there is
a question as to which group a use should be classified under, the
municipal Zoning Officer shall determine the group based on the most
comparable land use to the use listed in the application for land
development or subdivision plan. The use group of vacant land adjacent
to the site is determined by identifying the least intensive use permitted
within the applicable zoning district.
|
(2)ย
Step Two. Determine the buffer yard required between uses by
referring to the following Buffer Yard Table 1.
Buffer Yard Table 1
| |
---|---|
The table set forth below displays the range of buffer yard
requirements associated with the site use from the use groups found
on the Land Use Intensity Classification Chart at Subsection 12B above.
The letters A-D denote the planting plan buffer option set forth in
Buffer Yard Table 2. The letter (N) means that no buffer yard is required.
|
Land Use Intensity Classification of Proposed Development
|
Land Use Intensity Classification of Adjacent Lot(s)
| ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
I
|
II
|
III
|
IV
| ||
Group I
|
N
|
N
|
N
|
N
| |
Group II
|
B
|
A
|
B
|
C
| |
Group III
|
C
|
B
|
A
|
B
| |
Group IV
|
D
|
D
|
B
|
A
|
(3)ย
Step Three.
(a)ย
Determine the specific buffer yard to be used based on the options
for each bufferyard in the following table (Buffer Yard Table 2).
(b)ย
Table 2 below displays the range of buffer yard requirements
associated with each buffer yard and shows the minimum planting units
required per every 100 linear feet of distance along a site's perimeter.
Areas less than 100 linear feet and/or fractions thereof are to be
landscaped with the corresponding ratio by 100 linear feet, rounded
up to the nearest whole plant.
Buffer Yard
|
Required Width
|
Canopy Tree
|
Understory Tree, Evergreen Tree
|
Deciduous or Evergreen Shrub
|
---|---|---|---|---|
A
|
25 feet
|
3
|
4
|
โ
|
15 feet
|
2
|
6
|
โ
| |
B
|
25 feet
|
2
|
5
|
8
|
15 feet
|
2
|
6
|
9
| |
C
|
25 feet
|
2
|
7
|
12
|
15 feet (6 feet minimum height wall or fence)
|
1
|
8
|
8 w/fence/wall
| |
D
|
30 feet
|
2
|
6
|
12
|
15 feet (6 feet minimum height wall or fence)
|
2
|
8
|
18 w/fence/wall
|
The installation of a fence or berm shall satisfy a portion
of the buffer yard requirements of Buffer C and D as identified above
if the fence consists of at least 50% fence material distributed evenly,
not less than four feet nor more than six feet in height. A perimeter
wall shall also satisfy a portion of the buffer yard requirements
of Buffer C and D as identified above if the wall is not less than
four feet nor more than six feet in height. When landscaping is being
provided to buffer against a different use group than is on the site,
the required plant material must be evenly distributed within each
one-hundred-foot section of the buffer area. The even distribution
of plantings is intended to screen objectionable views. When landscaping
is being provided to buffer against the same use group as exists on
the site, the required plant material may be grouped or unevenly distributed
within each one-hundred-foot section of the buffer area.
|
(4)ย
Step Four. Determine the planting stock to be used as landscape
materials for the buffer yard in question by referring to the municipality's
Official Plant List.
C.ย
Placement of Buffer Yard Width. The landscaped buffer yard area shall
be established along the length of, and contiguous to, any lot line
or demarcation of land use, such as a leasable area. The width of
the area determined from Buffer Yard Table 2 of this section shall
be measured at right angles to the lot line of the applicant's land
development.
D.ย
Buffer Yards Between Developments.
13.ย
Interior and Exterior Parking Lot Landscaping.
A.ย
All parking lots shall meet the location requirements stipulated
in the Parking section of this chapter. All raised yards surrounding
the parking lot shall be bordered by a curb six inches high along
the sides of the yard area abutting the parking lot, including spaces
and aisles. Where the yards are not raised, separate stops shall be
provided at the end of each parking space abutting the yards. Where
walkways terminate at curbs, ramps shall be provided. Parking setback
areas shall be planted with grass or similar vegetative material and
may include shrubs, fences or walls.
B.ย
Planting areas shall be installed at the end of all parking bays
abutting an aisle or driveway. The planting areas shall be bordered
by a curb six inches high wherever it abuts a space or aisle, and
shall be at least 9.5 feet wide and extend the length of the parking
space and/or bay. Each planting area shall be planted with a combination
of suitable ground covers, grass, and/or mulch and a minimum of one
canopy tree.
C.ย
Utility poles and light standards are permitted within the planting
areas provided they are separated from the spaces and aisles as detailed
in the Parking Section of this chapter. Utility poles and light standards
are also permitted within the parking lot provided the pole is surrounded
on all sides by a six-inch concrete curb. The back of the curb must
be a minimum of three feet away from the edge of the pole. No poles
are permitted within a required parking space or drive aisle.
D.ย
When parking bays incorporate more than 10 parking spaces in a continuous
row, a raised island shall be incorporated within the parking bay
for every ten parking spaces. The raised island shall be bordered
by a curb six inches high minimum wherever it abuts a space or aisle
and shall be 9.5 feet wide and extend the length of the parking space
and/or bay. Each raised island shall be planted with a combination
of suitable ground covers and/or grass and a minimum of one canopy
tree. No islands are required in parking lots that are less than 60
feet in width as long as perimeter planting is used around the entire
parking lot with the exception of where the parking lot abuts the
building. Wherever a building adjoins a parking lot perimeter, islands
shall be required.
E.ย
In order to provide flexibility in design, reduce heat, glare and
visual expansiveness, the following option may be considered in conjunction
with interior landscaped islands: provision of a continuous landscaped
strip between every four bays of parking in lots that contain eight
or more bays in one area. The strip shall be a minimum of 15 feet
wide and shall include a vehicle overhang of 2ย 1/2 feet when
parking spaces are adjacent to the strip. The stall length with the
overhang strip may be reduced to 16 feet. The strip shall contain
a landscaped area of 10 feet minimum width and shall be planted with
shade trees at a ratio of at least one tree for every 45 feet of the
strip length inclusive of driveway widths. These trees shall be planted
no less than 25 feet nor greater than 50 feet apart. A combination
of suitable ground covers and/or grass shall cover the remainder of
the strip. If the landscaped strip provides direct access to a building
entrance, a minimum five-foot wide sidewalk shall also be included
in the strip. In this event, the landscaped strip will be required
to be 20 feet in width, with the sidewalk in the middle of the strip.
The required trees can then be planted alternately on each side of
the sidewalk at the required distance.
F.ย
In the event an existing parking lot is being enlarged or revised,
these regulations will apply only to the new section of the parking
lot.
14.ย
Commercial District Planting Requirements.
A.ย
In the HC and IC Districts, the off-street parking located within
the front yard setback area shall be provided with a twelve-foot wide
buffer yard between the parking lot and property line fronting any
street right-of-way.
B.ย
The planting shall provide shade and a view restrictive screen for
parking areas. For evening uses, the screen is intended to function
to block headlight glare affecting vehicles off site. Headlights of
parked vehicles must be obscured from the public right-of-way.
C.ย
One of the following options shall be used for the perimeter planting:
(1)ย
A minimum ten-foot wide landscaped strip shall be planted with
a minimum of one canopy tree or evergreen tree and 15 shrubs per 35
linear feet of frontage along the parking area (excluding driveway
openings).
(2)ย
A berm/earth mound, the top of which is at least two feet higher
than the elevation of the adjacent parking lot pavement. The slope
of the berm shall not exceed 25% (4:1) for lawn areas. Berms planted
with ground covers and shrubs may be steeper. However, no slope shall
exceed 50% (2:1). Berms shall be graded to appear as naturalistic
forms not causing any soil erosion problems and planted with a minimum
of one canopy tree and 10 shrubs per 35 linear feet of frontage along
the parking area (excluding driveway openings).
(3)ย
A six-foot wide landscaped embankment strip and a minimum three-foot
grade drop from the required yard area into any adjacent parking lot
pavement. The resulting embankment shall be planted with a minimum
of one canopy tree and 10 shrubs per 35 linear feet of frontage along
the parking area (excluding driveway openings). At least 50% of the
required shrubs shall be planted in the top half of the grade drop
area.
(4)ย
A minimum of a five-foot wide landscaped strip with a minimum
three-foot high brick, stone or finished concrete material wall to
screen any parking lot. The wall shall be located adjacent to, but
entirely outside, the minimum five-foot wide landscaping strip. The
strip shall be planted with a minimum of one canopy tree and five
shrubs per 35 linear feet of frontage along the parking area (excluding
driveway openings).
D.ย
No tree, fence, wall or similar item shall be installed in the sight
triangle of any corner, street intersection or access way intersecting
a public right-of-way that would cause an obstruction to visibility.
15.ย
Invasive Species. Invasive species as detailed below shall not be permitted as a component a landscape plan, except for those species that are existing on the site and are proposed for incorporation into the site landscaping pursuant to the provisions set forth in Subsection 13 above.
A.ย
Characteristics of Invasive Species. Invasive plants displace naturally
occurring vegetation and, in the process, upset nature's balance and
diversity. Invasive plants share the following characteristics:
B.ย
Prohibited Species. In general, aggressive, nonnative plants have no enemies or controls to limit their spread. Those listed below shall not be permitted as a component of a land development plan, except for those species that are existing on the site and are proposed for incorporation into the site landscaping pursuant to the provisions set forth in Subsection 14 above.
(1)ย
Trees (botanic name; common name).
(2)ย
Shrubs and Vines (botanic name; common name).
(a)ย
Berberis thunbergii; Japanese Barberry.
(b)ย
Elaeagnus umbellate; Autumn Olive.
(c)ย
Euonymus alatus; Winged Euonymus.
(d)ย
Ligustrum vulgare; European Privet.
(e)ย
Lonicera japonica; Japanese Honeysuckle.
(f)ย
Lonicera maackii; Amur Honeysuckle.
(g)ย
Lonicera morrowii; Morrow's Honeysuckle.
(h)ย
Lonicera tatarica; Tartarian Honeysuckle.
(i)ย
Lonicera x-bella; Hybrid Honeysuckle.
(j)ย
Lythrum salicaria; Purple Loosestrife (herbaceous).
(k)ย
Morus alba; White Mulberry.
(l)ย
Morus rubra; Red Mulberry.
(m)ย
Phylostachys aubea; Bamboo.
(n)ย
Rhamnus cathartica; Common Buckthorn.
(o)ย
Rhamnus frangula; Glossy Buckthorn.
(p)ย
Rosa multiflora; Multiflora Rose.
(q)ย
Viburnum opulus; European Highbush Cranberry.
(r)ย
Aronia spp.; Red, Black and Purplefruit Chokeberry.
16.ย
Plants Native to Central Pennsylvania. Native plants appropriately
selected for the site conditions provide a beautiful, hardy, low maintenance
landscape while benefitting the environment. Once established, native
plants save time and money by eliminating or significantly reducing
the need for fertilizers, pesticides, water, and maintenance equipment.
A.ย
In addition to a wide variety of plant species native to Central
Pennsylvania, the following native plant list is well suited to the
climate of the Nittany Valley Region and should be considered for
use in an approved landscaping plan.
(1)ย
Trees (botanic name, common name).
(a)ย
Acer spp.; Maple species.
(b)ย
Amelanchier spp.; Serviceberry species.
(c)ย
Alnus rugosa; Hazel Alder.
(d)ย
Carpinus caroliniana; American Hornbeam.
(e)ย
Carya spp.; Hickory species.
(f)ย
[Reserved]
(g)ย
Cercis Canadensis; Eastern Redbud.
(h)ย
Cornus alternifolia; Pagoda Dogwood.
(i)ย
Cornus floridia; Flowering Dogwood.
(j)ย
Fagus grandifolia: American Beech.
(k)ย
Fraxinus spp.; White, Black and Green Ash.
(l)ย
Juniperus virginiana; Eastern Red Cedar (not for planting near
playgrounds or walkways).
(m)ย
Liriodendron tulipifera; Tuliptree.
(n)ย
Nyssa sylvatica; Black Tupelo.
(o)ย
Ostrya virginiana; American Hophornbeam.
(p)ย
Pinus strobus; Eastern White Pine.
(q)ย
Pinus resinosa; Red Pine.
(r)ย
Platanus occidentalis; American Planetree.
(s)ย
Populus spp.; Aspen species.
(t)ย
Prunus. spp.; Pin and Black Cherry; Chokeberry.
(u)ย
Quercus spp; Black, White, Northern Red, Scarlet, Pin and Chestnut
Oak.
(v)ย
Rhus spp.; Sumac species ("grow low varieties").
(w)ย
Salix discolor nigra; Pussy and Black Willow (plant near water
sources, not near buildings).
(x)ย
(Reserved)
(y)ย
Tilia Americana; American Basswood (Linden).
(z)ย
Tsuga Canadensis; Canada Hemlock.
(2)ย
Shrubs (botanic name; common name).
(a)ย
Alnus serrulata; Common alder.
(b)ย
[Reserved]
(c)ย
Comptonia peregrine; Sweetfern.
(d)ย
Corpus spp.; Dogwood species.
(e)ย
Corylus spp.; Filbert species.
(f)ย
Hydrangea arborescens; Smooth Hydrangea.
(g)ย
Hypericum prolificum; Shrubby St. Johnswort.
(h)ย
Ilex verticillata; Common Winterberry Holly.
(i)ย
Kalmia latifolia; Mountain Laurel.
(j)ย
Lindera benzoin; Common Spicebush.
(k)ย
Rhododendron arborescens; Sweet Azalea.
(l)ย
Rhododendron mudiflorum; Pinxterbloom Azalea.
(m)ย
Rhododendron roseum; Roseshell Azalea.
(n)ย
Rubus spp.; Blackberry, Raspberry, and Thimbleberry.
(o)ย
Sambucus spp.; Elder species.
(p)ย
Vaccinium spp.; Lowbush and Highbush Blueberry; Deerberry
(q)ย
Viburnum spp.; Mapleleaf, Hobblebush, and Cranberrybush Viburnum.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 805; as amended by Ord.
2009-02, 4/6/2009]
1.ย
Intent. It is the intent of this section to conserve land by providing
for efficient use of land and infrastructure and by providing parkland
for all to enjoy now and in the future, to provide open space which
shall enhance and improve the quality of a residential subdivision
or land development, and to further provide for the long-term value
of the entire development. It is also the intent of this section to
ensure that adequate parks and recreational facilities are provided
to meet the needs of the residents as these needs are generated by
new subdivision and land development activity. Lastly, it is the intent
of this Part to protect the natural environment.
A.ย
Applicability. This section shall apply to all subdivision plans
and/or land development plans which include a residential use within
the R-1, R-4, A-2 and C zoning districts.
B.ย
Exemptions.
(1)ย
All parcels that are five acres or larger in area at the time
of enactment of this chapter shall be entitled to subdivide up to
two lots from the parent tract without having to comply with open
space and parkland regulations.
(a)ย
Lots less than 10 acres created under this exemption are to
be restricted from further subdivision and land development activity
by permanent deed restriction.
(b)ย
Lots 10 acres or greater created by this exemption and the remainder
of the parent tract shall comply with the open space and parkland
regulations if resubdivided at any time in the future.
(2)ย
Zoning Districts VC - Village Commercial and R-2 Town Residential
are exempted from these regulations.
(3)ย
Lot addition and lot consolidation plans, which do not reduce
any required and approved open space or parkland requirements.
C.ย
General Requirements.
(1)ย
Open space/parkland acreage shall be calculated based on gross
acreage of the parcel(s). Open space/parkland acreage (as calculated)
shall not include existing playgrounds or athletic fields, stormwater
facilities or other open space areas of schools or churches, roadways
or parking lots or yards individually owned. Open space acreage shall
include land exclusive of buildings and other structures, accessible
to all residents of the development, either for active or passive
recreational uses as prescribed.
(2)ย
At no time during the development of various phases or sections
of a plan may the total area of open space in the sections developed
be less than that required in the density calculation, unless additional
area to produce the required percentage is permanently reserved as
common open space on the remaining land of the total development.
The location or size of this reserved common open space on remaining
land may be altered or changed by the approval of the final plan of
an additional section or sections.
(3)ย
All new subdivision plans which incorporate "open space" acreage
shall designate 50% of said acreage as "parkland," subject to the
minimum requirements contained in this chapter. The location of this
parkland acreage shall be designated by the developer in accordance
with the regulations included herein and agreed to by the Spring Township
Board of Supervisors, and shall be made a part of the preliminary
and/or final plans of record for the subdivision plan.
(4)ย
The municipal governing body shall have the power and discretion
to require unimproved open space areas and parkland to be improved
prior to completion of the development of any stage of said tract
if the tract is developed in stages.
(5)ย
Areas set aside for open space/parkland under this Part shall
be consistent with the Nittany Valley Regional Comprehensive Plan
for future land use.
(6)ย
Written narrative statement to include the following:
(a)ย
A statement of the ownership of all the land included within
the development.
(b)ย
An explanation of the design pattern of the development.
(c)ย
A statement describing any proposed innovative design concepts
included in the plan.
(d)ย
The substance of covenants, grants of easement or other restrictions
proposed to be imposed on the use of the land, buildings and structures,
including proposed easements or grants for public use or utilities.
(e)ย
A description of the form of organization proposed to own and
maintain the open space and parkland, recreational facilities and
structures or other facilities.
(f)ย
A statement of the proposed use and improvement of open space
and recreational facilities.
(g)ย
A description of proposals to preserve natural features and
existing amenities and a statement of conceptual landscaping designs.
(h)ย
A statement describing the stormwater management methods to
be employed.
D.ย
Design Criteria. All acceptable open space/parkland shall be required
to meet these criteria:
(1)ย
General Design. Areas shall generally be designed as neighborhood
parks or natural areas which provide recreational opportunities for
the residents within the subdivision or in close proximity.
(2)ย
Access. Parkland/open space acreage must be readily accessible
to all development residents that it is intended to serve. The dedicated
land shall abut a public street and shall have a minimum frontage
of 50 feet or shall adjoin and become part of an already existing
park area which is accessible from a public street. If appropriate,
access to the park from other parts of the neighborhood shall be provided
through twenty-foot access easements with ten-foot wide paved walkways
installed by the owner or developer. Depending upon the parkland size
or shape, it may be necessary to provide access from an additional
public street, as deemed appropriate by the municipal governing body.
Other open space lands shall be accessible from a public street or
shall adjoin and become a part of an already existing open space area
which is accessible from a public street.
(3)ย
Shape. Parkland acreage shall have a lot length to width ratio
no greater than 2.5 to 1, unless otherwise approved by the Board of
Supervisors. The shape shall be suitable to accommodate those park
activities appropriate to the location and needs of the residents.
(4)ย
Slope. The majority of the parkland acreage shall have a slope
of not more than 3%, and the average slope of the park, as measured
perpendicular to the contour lines, and no portion of the parkland
shall exceed 8%. The remaining open space may include steep slopes,
but no more than 30% of the total required open space (including parkland
acreage) may contain steep slopes, as defined in this chapter. These
restrictions shall be adhered to unless otherwise approved by the
Board of Supervisors.
(5)ย
Floodplain. Open space may be located within a floodplain if
its proposed use is deemed to be acceptable. A maximum of 25% (one-quarter)
of the total parkland acreage may be located within a floodplain,
contingent upon the approval. No parkland acreage may be located on
or within any drainage way, wetlands area or steep slope area unless
otherwise approved. The developer must obtain certification that property
to be dedicated does not include wetlands unless the proposed use
is open space with no proposed improvements. The developer must also
provide sufficient justification for its proposed use to obtain approval.
All approvals within this section shall be made or denied by the Board
of Supervisors.
(6)ย
Stormwater Management Facilities. Stormwater facilities shall
not be included as a part of the open space/parkland, unless there
is a usable area for recreation provided, as determined by the municipal
governing body.
(7)ย
Pedestrian and Bicycle Paths. The use of pedestrian and bicycle
paths may be accepted as open space if they meet all of the following
conditions:
(a)ย
The minimum width of the open space right-of-way or easement
shall be 20 feet.
(b)ย
The pedestrian and bicycle paths have a logical beginning and
ending point, which provides an appropriate means of access to either
a park or other facilities the residents are likely to use.
(c)ย
The cost of improving the pedestrian or bicycle path is provided
by the developer in order to accommodate its intended use. This shall
not be considered as a credit towards a fee-in-lieu of land dedication.
This requirement is necessary since the dedication of narrow strips
of land has relatively little value compared to a larger parcel.
(8)ย
Utilities. Tracts of open space and parkland acreage are to
be accessible to, but not crossed above the surface by, telephone,
power, fuel, water or sewer lines. If any of these facilities are
placed underground, no part of them or their supportive equipment
shall protrude above ground level within an active play area. When
parkland is to be dedicated to the Township, utilities such as water,
sewer and electric shall be extended to the parkland. The location
of the utility extensions shall be approved by the Township.
(9)ย
Additional Criteria for Parkland. The following criteria apply
only to parkland acreage, in addition to the above criteria:
(a)ย
Location. The parkland shall be located, to the extent possible,
so that it equally serves all residents of the development, but in
all events the land shall be accessible to those it is designated
to serve. In some instances, the Township may require that the parkland
be placed in a location where it may be combined with existing parkland
from an adjacent development or park. In determining the location
of parkland, reference should be made to the Spring Township's Parks
and Recreation Board Master Plan to determine if there are proposed
parkland locations in the vicinity of the site.
(b)ย
Size. The minimum parcel size shall be no less than four acres.
(c)ย
Improvements. Improvements to be constructed or placed on parkland
shall be determined by agreement between developer (and/or agent for
developer) and Spring Township Board of Supervisors. All improvements
are to be graphically shown on preliminary subdivision and/or land
development plans. The developer shall be responsible for installation/construction
of any improvements to any open space and parkland acreage.
E.ย
Ownership and Maintenance.
(1)ย
The deed or deeds, or reciting, to any land set aside as open
space must contain a restriction, in a form acceptable to the municipal
governing body, to be duly recorded in the office for recording of
deeds, in and for the County, eliminating the possibility of further
subdivision of said open space in the future. The municipality may
require dedication to the municipality or other jurisdiction of all
or part of the required common open space.
(2)ย
Administration, Operation and Maintenance of Parkland Lands.
The Township shall have the option of acceptance for dedication of
lands deemed to qualify as parkland acreage. If accepted, the Township
will officially accept the parkland at the time of final approval
and recording of the plan and installations of said improvements.
At such time, a general warranty deed free from all encumbrances shall
be recorded for the dedicated land and it shall contain the following
restrictive clause: "This land was dedicated to the Township of Spring
for perpetual public park purposes pursuant to the Spring Township
Zoning Ordinance." Upon acceptance of dedicated parkland, the Township
or its designee shall be responsible for maintaining all dedicated
parkland parcels. Formation of and cooperation with a property owners
associations or similar organizations for purposes of maintenance
shall be encouraged, but the responsibility of ensuring that work
is performed shall remain with the Township. If Spring Township Board
of Supervisors elects to not accept dedication of parkland, administration,
operation and maintenance of the parkland acreage shall be treated
the same as the administration, operation and maintenance of all other
open space lands within the development.
(3)ย
Administration, operation and maintenance of the open space
lands shall be provided for by the developer unless one of the following
options is exercised: Open space lands may be administered and maintained
by a property owners association. The property owners association
shall not be dissolved nor shall it dispose of any or all of the open
space land, by sale or otherwise, except to a successor organization
conceived as established to administer, operate and maintain the common
open spaces, without first offering to dedicate the same to the municipality.
The municipality shall have 120 days to accept or reject such dedication.
Membership in the property owners association shall be mandatory for
every household living in the development. Such an organization shall
be established by the developer before any dwelling. Units are occupied
and shall provide a means for raising monies for maintenance in such
a way that increases in these monies may be realized at a future date
to cover rising costs and/or increased responsibilities.
(a)ย
Open space land may be administered and maintained by the municipality.
The municipality may at any time and from time to time, accept the
dedication of, or parts of, the open space land or any interest therein
for public use and maintenance, but the municipality need not require,
as a condition of the approval, that land proposed to be set aside
for common open space be dedicated or made available to public use.
Nothing herein shall be construed to mean that the municipality is
obligated to accept or maintain such dedicated land. Where the municipality
has accepted the dedication of open space as provided herein, such
land and improvements shall be open to the residents of the municipality.
(b)ย
Open space lands may be administered and maintained by an open
space trust. A trustee of this kind shall hold title to said open
space lands and shall be responsible for hiring professionals to administer,
operate and maintain all open space lands. Such deed shall contain
stipulations outlining easements over the surface of said open space
lands for each resident of the development whether he resides in a
rental unit or owned unit.
(4)ย
The developer shall establish the property owners association
and provide complete details concerning the proposed body, its powers,
rights, duties, responsibilities, etc., in regard to the ownership
and maintenance of the common open space, which shall be subject to
approval by the municipal governing body. No final plan shall be approved
by the municipal governing body without such prior approval. All deeds
for conveyance of land in the development shall recite the rights
and responsibilities of the purchases in all open space areas.
F.ย
Lack or Failure of Maintenance. In the event that the organization
established to own and maintain common open space, or any successor
organization, shall at any time after establishment of the organization
fail to maintain the common open space in reasonable order and condition
in accordance with the development plan, the municipality may serve
written notice upon such organization or upon the residents of the
development setting forth the manner in which the organization has
failed to maintain the common open space in reasonable condition,
and said notice shall include a demand that such deficiencies of maintenance
be corrected:
(1)ย
Within 30 days thereof and shall state the date and place of
a hearing thereon which shall be held within 14 days of the notice.
At such hearing the municipality may modify the terms of the original
notice as shall be corrected. If the deficiencies set forth in the
original notice or in the modifications thereof shall not be corrected
within said 30 days or any extension thereof, the municipality, in
order to preserve the taxable values of the properties within the
development, and to prevent the common open space from becoming a
public nuisance, may enter upon said common space and maintain the
same for a period of one year. Said maintenance by the municipality
shall not constitute a taking of the said common open space, nor vest
in the public any rights to use the same. Before the expiration of
said year, the municipality shall, upon its initiative or upon the
request of the organization, call a public hearing upon notice to
such organization or to the residents of the development, to be held
by the municipal governing body, at which hearing such organization
or the residents of the development shall show cause why such maintenance
by the municipality shall not, at the option of the municipality,
continue for a succeeding year. The municipal governing body shall
determine that such organization is ready and able to maintain said
common open space at the end of the year. If the municipality shall
determine that such organization is not ready and able to maintain
said common open space in a reasonable condition, the municipality
may, in its discretion, continue to maintain said common open space
during the next succeeding year and, subject to a similar hearing
and determination, in each year thereafter. The decision of the municipal
governing body shall be subject to appeal to court in the same manner,
and within the same time limitation, as is provided for zoning appeals.
(2)ย
The cost of maintenance by the municipality shall be assessed
ratably against all the properties within the development and shall
become a lien on said properties when filed. The municipality at the
same time of entering upon said common open space for the purpose
of maintenance, shall file a notice of lien in the office of the Prothonotary
of the County, upon the properties affected by the lien within the
development.
G.ย
Fee-In-Lieu of Parkland Dedication. The payment of fee-in-lieu of
land dedication shall be in accordance with the requirements of Article
V, ยงย 503(11) of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning
Code (Act 247), as amended. The fee-in-lieu of parkland shall be used
to create and enhance public recreation areas which will directly
or indirectly benefit future inhabitants of the development or subdivision
providing the fee.
(1)ย
If the Board of Supervisors determines that there is not acceptable
land for parkland dedication, or that the subdivision is too small
to allow for a suitable amount of land for dedication, or that it
is not practical to dedicate parkland, or that there already exists
an adequate amount of parks and open space land and recreational facilities,
or that the location of the parkland within the proposed subdivision
is not consistent with the adopted Spring Township Parks and Recreation
Plan, a fee-in-lieu may be considered by the developer. Such determination
shall be made at the preliminary plan stage.
(2)ย
The parkland fee-in-lieu rate shall be established by resolution
of the Board of Supervisors and shall be assessed on a per housing
unit basis.
(3)ย
After receiving the recommendation of Spring Township staff
and the Spring Township Planning Commission, the Spring Township Board
of Supervisors may determine that a fee-in-lieu would be more beneficial
to the residents of the Township than a land dedication for parkland.
(4)ย
As part of the approval process, the Township Manager or the
Township Zoning Officer, under direction of the Board of Supervisors,
shall send written notice to the developer that the Board has determined
that a fee-in-lieu would be more beneficial to the Township's residents
than the dedication of parkland.
(5)ย
The Board of Supervisors may, at its option and with the developer's
agreement, require the dedication of some land and the payment of
a fee-in-lieu of dedication for the balance. This may be determined
primarily based on existing parkland being located adjacent to the
proposed subdivision or land development plan and the desire to expand
the existing parkland, but may incorporate other factors as well.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 806; as amended by Ord.
2009-02, 4/6/2009; and by Ord. 2015-01, 1/12/2015]
1.ย
Statutory Authorization: The Legislature of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
has, by the passage of the Pennsylvania Flood Plain Management Act
of 1978, delegated the responsibility to local governmental units
to adopt floodplain management regulations to promote public health,
safety, and the general welfare of its citizenry. Therefore, the Board
of Supervisors of Spring Township does hereby order as follows.
All land and watercourses defined herein as floodplains shall
be subject to the following regulations regardless of the district
regulations within which such land and watercourses are located. The
floodplains are defined as: (A) those areas subject to inundation
by the one-hundred-year flood as delineated by the Flood Insurance
Study and accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Spring
Township prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, dated
January 16, 2015, or the most recent revision thereof.
The above referenced FIS and FIRMs, and any subsequent revisions
and amendments are hereby adopted by Spring Township and declared
to be a part of this section.
The AE Area/District shall be those areas identified as an AE
Zone on the firm included in the FIS prepared by FEMA and for which
one-hundred-year flood elevations have been provided in the FIS.
The A Area/District shall be those areas identified as an A
Zone on the FIRM included in the FIS prepared by FEMA and for which
no one-hundred-year flood elevations have been provided. For these
areas, elevation and floodway information from Federal, State or other
acceptable sources shall be used when available. Where other acceptable
information is not available, the elevation shall be determined by
using the elevation of a point on the boundary of the identified floodplain
area which is nearest the construction site. In lieu of the above,
the municipality may require the applicant to determine the one-hundred-year
flood elevation with detailed hydrologic and hydraulic engineering
techniques. Hydrologic and hydraulic analyses shall be undertaken
only by professional engineers or others of demonstrated qualification,
who shall certify that the technical methods used correctly reflect
currently accepted technical concepts. Studies, analyses, computations,
etc., shall be submitted in sufficient detail to allow a thorough
technical review by the Township. Where a difference exists between
these two documents, the document which delineates the greater area
shall be used. Any changes to the data contained in the Flood Insurance
Study are subject to the approval of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA).
A.ย
Intent. It is the intent of this section to preserve the natural
functions of floodplains, to promote the general health, welfare,
and safety of the community, to protect life and property from the
hazards of flooding, to protect the waters of the Township and to
minimize the financial burdens which floods impose upon the community.
These purposes shall be advanced by preventing certain uses and structures
from locating in floodplains while allowing others which will not
(1) impede the flow of flood waters; (2) present the hazard of pollution,
erosion and sedimentation of floodplains and watercourses; (3) result
in increased surface runoff and downstream flooding; and (4) impede
the recharge of aquifers.
B.ย
Abrogation and Greater Restrictions. This section supersedes any
other conflicting provisions which may be in effect in identified
floodplain areas. However, any other ordinance provisions shall remain
in full force and effect to the extent that those provisions are more
restrictive. If there is any conflict between any of the provisions
of this section, the more restrictive shall apply.
C.ย
Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause,
or phrase of this section shall be declared invalid for any reason
whatsoever, such a decision shall not affect the remaining portions
of the ordinance, which shall remain in full force and effect, and
for this purpose the provisions of this section are hereby declared
to be severable.
D.ย
Warning and Disclaimer of Liability. The degree of flood protection
sought by the provisions of this section is considered reasonable
for regulatory purposes and is based on accepted engineering methods
of study. Larger floods may occur or flood heights may be increased
by man-made or natural causes, such as ice jams and bridge openings
restricted by debris. This section does not imply that areas outside
any identified floodplain areas, or that land uses permitted within
such areas will be free from flooding or flood damages.
This section shall not create liability on the part of Spring
Township or any officer or employee thereof for any flood damages
that result from reliance on this section or any administrative decision
lawfully made thereunder.
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E.ย
Permitted Uses. Floodplains may be only used for the following; provided,
such uses and structures do not conflict with the limitations of Subsection
1F below:
(1)ย
The tilling of the land, the raising of crops, fruits and vegetables
and the raising and keeping of livestock and poultry.
(2)ย
Horticultural uses related to the raising, propagating and selling
of trees, shrubs, flowers and other plant materials.
(3)ย
Forestry uses related to the harvesting of lumber products.
(4)ย
Public and private conservation areas for the conservation of
open space, water, soil and wildlife resources.
(5)ย
Park and recreational areas, including golf courses and driving
ranges in districts where permitted.
(6)ย
Essential services provided such facilities are designed and
built to minimize and eliminate flood damage and infiltration; and
are designed and built to applicable Spring-Benner-Walker Joint Authority
and Spring Township Authority specifications.
(7)ย
Retaining walls, flood retention dams, culverts and bridges
as permitted by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
(8)ย
Customary uses accessory to the above.
F.ย
Use Limitations. The uses permitted above in Subsection 1E are limited
as follows:
(1)ย
All new construction or development (including substantial improvements)
are prohibited, except park shelters.
(2)ย
Improvements or modifications to an existing structure shall
be permitted but they shall be elevated or floodproofed as much as
possible; provided, that said improvements or modifications involve
(a) less than 50% of the fair market value and (b) less than 50% of
the square footage as it existed on April 15, 1977.
(3)ย
All other uses whether temporary or permanent are prohibited
including, but not limited to, the following which are not interpreted
as being customary accessory uses: filling in of the floodplain; sanitary
landfill or dumping of any kind; fences which impede, retard or change
the direction of the flow of water or catch or collect debris carried
by such water; outdoor storage of materials which are buoyant, flammable
or explosive; and onsite sewage disposal systems.
(4)ย
Prior to any proposed alteration or relocation of any stream
or any watercourse, etc., within the Township, a permit shall be obtained
from the Department of Environmental Protection regional office, Dams
and Encroachment Division, as specified in the Dam Safety and Encroachment
Act, as amended. Further, notification of the proposal shall be given
to all affected adjacent municipalities. Copies of such notifications
shall be forwarded to both FEMA and the Department of Community and
Economic Development (DCED).
(a)ย
Under no circumstances shall any use, activity and/or development
adversely affect the capacity of the channels or floodways of any
watercourse, drainage ditch or any other drainage facility or system.
G.ย
Site Plan Review. All applications for zoning permits for lots, uses, structures and any development located within a floodplain or within 100 feet of a floodplain shall submit a site plan, as required by Part 11 of this chapter; additionally these items shall be shown on the plan.
(1)ย
The proposed lowest floor elevation of any proposed building
based upon North American Vertical Datum of 1988.
(2)ย
The elevation of the one-hundred-year flood.
(3)ย
If available, information concerning flood depths, pressures,
velocities, impact and uplift forces and other factors associated
with a one-hundred-year flood.
(4)ย
Detailed information concerning any proposed floodproofing measures.
H.ย
Identifying Zones. The identified floodplain area shall consist of
the following specific areas:
(1)ย
FW (Floodway Area). The Floodway Area shall be those areas identified
in the FIS and the FIRM as floodway and which represent the channel
of a watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved
in order to discharge the base flood without increasing the water
surface elevation by more than one foot at any point. This term shall
also include floodway areas which have been identified in other available
studies or sources of information for those Special Flood Hazard Areas
where no floodway has been identified in the FIS and FIRM.
(2)ย
The AE Area adjacent to the floodway shall be those areas identified
as an AE Zone on the FIRM included in the FIS prepared by FEMA for
which base flood elevations have been provided and a floodway has
been delineated.
(3)ย
AE Area without floodway shall be those areas identified as
an AE zone on the FIRM included in the FIS prepared by FEMA for which
base flood elevations have been provided but no floodway has been
determined.
(4)ย
The A Area/District shall be those areas identified as an A
Zone on the FIRM included in the FIS prepared by FEMA and for which
no base flood elevations have been provided. For these areas, elevation
and floodway information from other Federal, State, or other acceptable
sources shall be used when available. Where other acceptable information
is not available, the base flood elevation shall be determined by
using the elevation of a point on the boundary of the identified floodplain
area which is nearest the construction site.
(5)ย
The AO and AH Area/District shall be those areas identified
as Zones AO and AH on the FIRM and in the FIS. These areas are subject
to inundation by 1% annual-chance shallow flooding where average depths
are between one and three feet. In Zones AO and AH, drainage paths
shall be established to guide floodwaters around and away from structures
on slopes.
I.ย
ACCESSORY USE OR STRUCTURE
BASE FLOOD
BASE FLOOD DISCHARGE
BASE FLOOD ELEVATION (BFE)
BASEMENT
BUILDING
COMPLETELY DRY SPACE
DEVELOPMENT
ESSENTIALLY DRY SPACE
EXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
EXPANSION TO AN EXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
FLOOD
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP (FIRM)
FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY (FIS)
FLOODPLAIN AREA
FLOODPROOFING
FLOODWAY
HIGHEST ADJACENT GRADE
HISTORIC STRUCTURES
LOWEST FLOOR
MANUFACTURED HOME
MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
MINOR REPAIR
NEW CONSTRUCTION
NEW MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
PERSON
POST-FIRM STRUCTURE
PRE-FIRM STRUCTURE
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
REGULATORY FLOOD ELEVATION
REPETITIVE LOSS
SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA (SFHA)
START OF CONSTRUCTION
STRUCTURE
SUBDIVISION
SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT
UNIFORM CONSTRUCTION CODE (UCC)
VARIANCE
VIOLATION
Specific Definitions.
A use or structure on the same lot with, and of a nature
customarily incidental and subordinate to, the principal use or structure.
A flood which has a 1% chance of being equaled or exceeded
in any given year (also called the "one-hundred-year flood" or 1%
annual-chance flood).
The volume of water resulting from a base flood as it passes
a given location within a given time, usually expressed in cubic feet
per second (cfs).
The elevation shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)
for Zones AE, AH, A1-30 that indicates the water surface elevation
resulting from a flood that has a 1% or greater chance of being equaled
or exceeded in any given year.
Any area of the building having its floor below ground level
on all sides.
A combination of materials to form a permanent structure
having walls and a roof. Included shall be all manufactured homes
and trailers to be used for human habitation.
A space which will remain totally dry during flooding; the
structure is designed and constructed to prevent the passage of water
and water vapor.
Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate,
including, but not limited to, the construction, reconstruction, renovation,
repair, expansion, or alteration of buildings or other structures;
the placement of manufactured homes; streets, and other paving; utilities;
filling, grading and excavation; mining; dredging; drilling operations;
storage of equipment or materials; and the subdivision of land.
A space which will remain dry during flooding, except for
the passage of some water vapor or minor seepage; the structure is
substantially impermeable to the passage of water.
A manufactured home park or subdivision for which the construction
of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes
are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities,
the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the
pouring of concrete pads) is completed before the effective date of
the floodplain management regulations adopted by a community.
The preparation of additional sites by the construction of
facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes
are to be affixed (including the installation of utilities, the construction
of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete
pads).
A temporary inundation of normally dry land areas.
The official map on which the Federal Emergency Management
Agency has delineated both the areas of special flood hazards and
the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
The official report provided by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency that includes flood profiles, the Flood Insurance Rate Map,
the Flood Boundary and Floodway Map, and the water surface elevation
of the base flood.
A relatively flat or low land area which is subject to partial
or complete inundation from an adjoining or nearby stream, river or
watercourse; and/or any area subject to the unusual and rapid accumulation
of surface waters from any source.
Any combination of structural and nonstructural additions,
changes, or adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate flood
damage to real estate or improved real property, water and sanitary
facilities, structures and their contents.
The channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent
land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood
without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than
one foot.
The highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior
to construction next to the proposed walls of a structure.
Any structure that is:
(a)
|
Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places
(a listing maintained by the Department of Interior) or preliminarily
determined by the Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements
for individual listing on the National Register.
| ||
(b)
|
Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the
Interior as contributing to the historical significance of a registered
historic district or a district preliminarily determined by the Secretary
to qualify as a registered historic district.
| ||
(c)
|
Individually listed on a State inventory of historic places
in states which have been approved by the Secretary of the Interior.
| ||
(d)
|
Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places
in communities with historic preservation that have been certified
either:
| ||
(i)
|
By an approved State program as determined by the Secretary
of the Interior.
| ||
(ii)
|
Directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without
approved programs.
|
The lowest floor of the lowest fully enclosed area (including
basement). An unfinished, flood resistant partially enclosed area,
used solely for parking of vehicles, building access, and incidental
storage, in an area other than a basement area is not considered the
lowest floor of a building, provided that such space is not designed
and built so that the structure is in violation of the applicable
non-elevation design requirements of this chapter.
A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which
is built on a permanent chassis, and is designed for use with or without
a permanent foundation when attached to the required utilities. The
term includes park trailers, travel trailers, recreational and other
similar vehicles which are placed on a site for more than 180 consecutive
days.
A parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into two
or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.
The replacement of existing work with equivalent materials
for the purpose of its routine maintenance and upkeep, but not including
the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal
or cutting of any structural beam or bearing support, or the removal
or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts
of a structure affecting the exitway requirements; nor shall minor
repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation
of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas,
oil, waste, vent, or similar piping, electric wiring, mechanical or
other work affecting public health or general safety.
Structures for which the start of construction commenced
on or after the effective start date of this section and includes
any subsequent improvements to such structures. Any construction started
after April 15, 1977, and before the effective start date of this
section is subject to the ordinance in effect at the time the permit
was issued, provided the start of construction was within 180 days
of permit issuance.
A manufactured home park or subdivision for which the construction
of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes
are to be affixed (including at a minimum, the installation of utilities,
the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the
pouring of concrete pads) is completed on or after the effective date
of floodplain management regulations adopted by a community.
An individual, partnership, public or private association
or corporation, firm, trust, estate, municipality, governmental unit,
public utility or any other legal entity whatsoever, which is recognized
by law as the subject of rights and duties.
Is a structure for which construction or substantial improvement
occurred after December 31, 1974, or on or after the community's initial
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) dated April 15, 1977, whichever is
later, and, as such, would be required to be compliant with the regulations
of the National Flood Insurance Program.
Is a structure for which construction or substantial improvement
occurred on or before December 31, 1974, or before the community's
initial Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) dated April 15, 1977, whichever
is later, and, as such, would not be required to be compliant with
the regulations of the National Flood Insurance Program.
A vehicle which is:
(a)
|
Built on a single chassis.
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(b)
|
Not more than 400 square feet, measured at the largest horizontal
projections.
| |
(c)
|
Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light-duty
truck.
| |
(d)
|
Not designed for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary
living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
|
The base flood elevation (BFE) or estimated flood height
as determined using simplified methods plus a freeboard safety factor
of 1ย 1/2 feet.
Flood related damages sustained by a structure on two separate
occasions during a ten-year period for which the cost of repairs at
the time of each such flood event, on average, equals or exceeds 25%
of the market value of the structure before the damages occurred.
An area in the floodplain subject to a 1% or greater chance
of flooding in any given year. It is shown on the FIRM as Zone A,
AO, A1-30, AE, A99, or, AH.
Includes substantial improvement and other proposed new development
and means the date the permit was issued, provided the actual start
of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition,
placement, or other improvement was within 180 days after the date
of the permit and shall be completed within 12 months after the date
of issuance of the permit unless a time extension is granted, in writing,
by the Floodplain Administrator. The actual start means either the
first placement of permanent construction of a structure on a site,
such as the pouring of slab or footings, the installation of piles,
the construction of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation;
or the placement of a manufacture home on a foundation. Permanent
construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing,
grading, and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets
and walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings,
piers, or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor does
it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings,
such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part
of the main structure. For a substantial improvement, the actual start
of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor,
or other structural part of a building, whether or not that alteration
affects the external dimensions of the building.
A walled and roofed building, including a gas or liquid storage
tank that is principally above ground, as well as a manufactured home.
The division or re-division of a lot, tract, or parcel of
land by any means into two or more lots, tracts, parcels or other
divisions of land including changes in existing lot lines for the
purpose, whether immediate or future, of lease, partition by the court
for distribution to heirs, or devisees, transfer of ownership or building
or lot development: Provided, however, that the subdivision by lease
of land for agricultural purposes into parcels of more than 10 acres,
not involving any new street or easement of access or any residential
dwelling, shall be exempted.
Damage from any cause sustained by a structure whereby the
cost of restoring the structure to its before-damaged condition would
equal or exceed 50% or more of the market value of the structure before
damage occurred.
Any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement
of a structure, of which the cost equals or exceeds 50% of the market
value of the structure before the "start of construction" of the improvement.
This term includes structures which have incurred "substantial damage"
or "repetitive loss" regardless of the actual repair work performed.
The term does not, however, include any project for improvement of
a structure to correct existing violations of State or local health,
sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been identified
by the local code enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary
to assure safe living conditions.
The statewide building code adopted by the Pennsylvania General
Assembly in 1999 applicable to new construction in all municipalities
whether administered by the municipality, a third party or the Department
of Labor and Industry. Applicable to residential and commercial buildings,
the Code adopted the International Residential Code (IRC) and the
International Building Code (IBC), by reference, as the construction
standard applicable with the State floodplain construction. For coordination
purposes, references to the above are made specifically to various
sections of the IRC and the IBC.
A grant of relief by a community from the terms of a floodplain
management regulation.
The failure of a structure or other development to be fully
compliant with the community's floodplain management regulations.
A structure or other development without the elevation certificate,
other certifications, or other evidence of compliance required in
44 CFR 60.3(b)(5), (c)(4), (c)(10), (d)(3), (e)(2), (e)(4), or (e)(5)
is presumed to be in violation until such time as that documentation
is provided.
J.ย
Development in Floodplain. It shall be the duty of any landowner
or developer applying for a permit for development in the floodplain
as designated in the Flood Insurance Study and accompanying Flood
Boundary and Floodway Map (FBFM) to present evidence that all other
necessary governmental permits including those required by State and
Federal laws, have been obtained. This may include permits required
by the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act, No. 537 of 1965; the Pennsylvania
Dam Safety and Encroachment Act of 1979; the Pennsylvania Floodplain
Management Act, No. 166 of 1978; and the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act Amendments of 1972, 4.4, 33 U.S.C. 1334, as amended.
K.ย
Variances. If compliance with
any of the requirements of this chapter would result in an exceptional
hardship to a prospective builder, developer or landowner, the Zoning
Hearing Board may, upon request, grant relief from the strict application
of the requirements. Requests for variances shall be considered by
the Board in accordance with the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning
Code and the following:
(1)ย
Not withstanding the provisions of this subsection, no variance
shall be granted for:
(b)ย
The commencement of, or any construction of, a new manufactured
home park or manufactured home subdivision or substantial improvement
to an existing manufactured home park or manufactured home subdivision.
(c)ย
Any new or substantially improved structure which will be used
for the production or storage of any of the following dangerous materials
or substances or which will be used for any activity requiring the
maintenance of a supply (more than 550 gallons or other comparable
volume or any amount of radioactive substances) or any of the following
dangerous materials or substances on the premises:
(i)ย
Acetone.
(ii)ย
Ammonia.
(iii)ย
Benzene.
(iv)ย
Calcium carbide.
(v)ย
Carbon disulfide.
(vi)ย
Celluloid.
(vii)ย
Chlorine.
(viii)ย
Hydrochloric acid.
(ix)ย
Hydrocyanic acid.
(x)ย
Magnesium.
(xi)ย
Nitric acid and oxides of nitrogen.
(xii)ย
Petroleum products (gasoline, fuel oil, etc.).
(xiii)ย
Phosphorus.
(xiv)ย
Potassium.
(xv)ย
Sodium.
(xvi)ย
Sulphur and sulphur products.
(xvii)ย
Pesticides (including insecticides, fungicides
and rodenticides).
(xviii)ย
Radioactive substances, insofar as such substances
are not otherwise regulated.
(d)ย
No variance shall be granted for any construction, development,
use or activity within any A and AE area without floodway that would,
together with all other existing and anticipated development, increase
the one-hundred-year flood elevation more than one foot at any point.
(2)ย
If granted, a variance shall involve only the least modification
necessary to provide relief. If it should become necessary to grant
any variance, the applicant shall be required to comply with all applicable
requirements of the National Flood Insurance Rate Maps regulations
(a, b, c and d). The applicant must also comply with any other requirements
considered necessary by the Township.
(3)ย
In granting any variance, the Township shall attach whatever
reasonable conditions and safeguards it considers necessary in order
to protect the public health, safety and welfare and to achieve the
objectives of this chapter.
(5)ย
In reviewing any request for variance, the Board shall consider,
at a minimum, the following:
(a)ย
That there is good and sufficient cause.
(b)ย
That failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional
hardship to the applicant.
(c)ย
That the granting of the variance will (i) neither result in
an unacceptable or prohibited increase in flood heights, additional
threats to public safety or extraordinary public expenses; (ii) nor
create nuisances, cause fraud on or victimize the public, or conflict
with any other applicable Sate or local ordinances and regulations.
(6)ย
A complete record of all variance requests and related actions
shall be maintained by the Township. In addition, a report of all
variances granted during the year shall be included in the annual
report to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Not withstanding
any of the above, however, all structures shall be designed and constructed
so as to have the capability of resisting the one-hundred-year flood.
L.ย
Changes in Identification of Area. The identified floodplain area
may be revised or modified by the Board where studies or information
provided by a qualified agency or person documents the need for such
revision. However, prior to any such change, approval must be obtained
from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Additionally,
as soon as practicable, but not later than six months after the date
such information becomes available, a community shall notify FEMA
of the changes to the Special Flood Hazard Area by submitting technical
or scientific data.
M.ย
Technical Provisions.
(1)ย
With any FW (floodway area), the following provisions apply:
(a)ย
Within any floodway area, no encroachments, including fill,
new construction, substantial improvements, or other development shall
be permitted unless it has been demonstrated through hydrologic and
hydraulic analysis performed in accordance with standard engineering
practice that the proposed encroachment would not result in any increase
in flood levels within the community during the occurance of the base
flood discharge.
(b)ย
No new construction or development shall be allowed, unless
a permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection
Regional Office.
(2)ย
Within any FE (Special Floodplain Area), no new construction
or development shall be allowed unless it is demonstrated that the
cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with
all other existing and anticipated development, will not increase
the elevation of the one-hundred-year flood more than one foot at
any point.
No encroachment, alteration, or improvement of any kind shall
be made to any watercourse unless it can be shown that the activity
will not reduce or impede the flood carrying capacity of the watercourse
in any way.
(3)ย
Alteration or Relocation of Watercourse.
(a)ย
No alteration or improvement of any kind shall be made to any
watercourse until all adjacent municipalities which may be affected
by such action have been notified by the municipality, and until all
required permits or approvals have first been obtained from the Department
of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
(b)ย
No alteration or improvement of any kind shall be made to any
watercourse unless it can be shown that the activity will not reduce
or impede the flood carrying capacity of the watercourse in any way.
(c)ย
In addition, FEMA and the Pennsylvania Department of Community
and Economic Development, shall be notified prior to any alteration
or relocation of any watercourse.
(4)ย
When a community proposes to permit
the following encroachments:
(a)ย
Any development that causes a rise in the base flood elevations
within the floodway.
(b)ย
Any development occurring in Zones A1-30 and Zone AE without
a designated floodway, which will cause a rise of more than one foot
in the base flood elevation.
(c)ย
Alteration or relocation of a stream (including, but not limited
to, installing culverts and bridges).
(d)ย
The applicant shall (as per 44 CFR Part 65.12):
(i)ย
Apply to FEMA for conditional approval of such
action prior to permitting the encroachments to occur.
(ii)ย
Upon receipt of the Administrator's conditional
approval of map change and prior to approving the proposed encroachments,
a community shall provide evidence to FEMA of the adoption of floodplain
management ordinances incorporating the increased base flood elevations
and/or revised floodway reflecting the post-project condition.
(iii)ย
Upon completion of the proposed encroachments,
a community shall provide as-built certifications. FEMA will initiate
a final map revision upon receipt of such certifications in accordance
with 44 CFR Part 67.
(5)ย
Any new construction, development, uses or activities allowed
within any identified floodplain area shall be undertaken in strict
compliance with the provisions contained in this section and any other
applicable codes, ordinances and regulations.
N.ย
Design and Construction Standards. The following minimum standards
shall apply for all construction and development proposed within any
identified floodplain area.
(1)ย
Residential Structures.
(a)ย
In AE, A1-30, and AH Zones, any new construction or substantial
improvement shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated
up to, or above, the regulatory flood elevation.
(b)ย
In A Zones, where there are no base flood elevations specified
on the FIRM, any new construction or substantial improvement shall
have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated up to, or above,
the regulatory flood elevation determined in accordance with this
section.
(2)ย
Nonresidential Structures.
(a)ย
In AE, A1-30 and AH Zones, any new construction or substantial
improvement of a nonresidential structure shall have the lowest floor
(including basement) elevated up to, or above, the regulatory flood
elevation, or be designed and constructed so that the space enclosed
below the regulatory flood elevation:
(b)ย
In A Zones, where no base flood elevations are specified on
the FIRM, any new construction or substantial improvement shall have
the lowest floor (including basement) elevated or completely floodproofed
up to, or above, the regulatory flood elevation determined in accordance
with this section.
(c)ย
Any nonresidential structure, or part thereof, made watertight
below the regulatory flood elevation shall be floodproofed in accordance
with the W1 or W2 space classification standards contained in the
publication entitled "Flood-Proofing Regulations" published by the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (June 1972, as amended March 1992) or
with some other equivalent standard. All plans and specifications
for such floodproofing shall be accompanied by a statement certified
by a registered professional engineer or architect which states that
the proposed design and methods of construction are in conformance
with the above referenced standards.
(3)ย
Space below the Lowest Floor.
(a)ย
Fully enclosed space below the lowest floor (including basement)
is prohibited.
(b)ย
Partially enclosed space below the lowest floor (excluding basement)
which shall be used solely for the parking of a vehicle, building
access, or incidental storage in an area other than a basement, shall
be designed and constructed to allow for the automatic entry and exit
of flood waters for the purpose of equalizing hydrostatic forces on
exterior walls. The term "partially enclosed space" also included
crawl space.
Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified
by a registered professional engineer or architect, or meet or exceed
the following minimum criteria:
(i)ย
A minimum of two openings having a net total area
of not less than one square inch for every foot of enclosed space.
(ii)ย
The bottom of all openings shall be no higher
than one foot above grade.
(iii)ย
Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers,
etc., or other coverings or devices provided that they permit the
automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
(4)ย
Fill. If fill is used it shall:
(a)ย
Extend laterally at least 15 feet beyond the building line from
all point.
(b)ย
Consist of soil or small rock materials only. Sanitary landfills
shall not be permitted.
(c)ย
Be compacted to provide the necessary permeability and resistance
to erosion, scouring, or settling.
(d)ย
Be no steeper than one vertical to two horizontal feet unless
substantiated data, justifying steeper slopes are submitted to, and
approved by the Building Permit Officer.
(e)ย
Be used to the extent to which it does not adversely affect
adjacent properties. The provisions contained in the 2003 IBC (ยงยงย 1801.1
and 1803.4) shall be utilized.
(5)ย
Drainage Facilities. Storm drainage facilities shall be designed
to convey the flow of stormwater to runoff in a safe and efficient
manner. The system shall insure proper drainage away from buildings.
The system shall also be designed to prevent the discharge of excess
runoff onto adjacent properties. The provisions contained in the 2003
IBC (Appendix G401.5) shall be utilized.
(6)ย
Water and Sanitary Sewer Facilities and Systems.
(a)ย
All new or replacement water and sanitary sewer facilities and
systems shall be located, designed and constructed to minimize or
eliminate flood damages and the infiltration of flood waters.
(b)ย
Sanitary sewer facilities and systems shall be designed to prevent
the discharge of untreated sewage into flood waters.
(c)ย
No part of any on-site sewage system shall be located within
any identified floodplain area except in strict compliance with all
State and local regulations for such systems. If any such system is
permitted, it shall be located so as to avoid impairment to it, or
contamination from it during a flood.
(7)ย
Other Utilities. All other utilities such as gas lines, electrical
and telephone systems shall be located, elevated (where possible)
and constructed to minimize the chance of impairment during a flood.
(8)ย
Streets. The finished elevation of all new streets shall be
no more than one foot below the regulatory flood elevation.
(9)ย
Storage. All materials that are buoyant, flammable, explosive
or in times of flooding, could be injurious to human, animal or plant
life, and not listed in Subsection 1K(1)(c), development which may
endanger human life, shall be stored at or above the regulatory flood
elevation and/or flood proofed to the maximum extent possible.
(10)ย
Placement of Buildings and Structures. All buildings and structures
shall be designed, located and constructed so as to offer the minimum
obstruction to the flow of water and shall be designed to have a minimum
effect upon the flow of height of flood water.
(11)ย
Anchoring.
(a)ย
All buildings and structures shall be firmly anchored in accordance
with accepted engineering practices to prevent flotation, collapse,
or lateral movement.
(b)ย
All air ducts, large pipes, storage tanks, and other similar
objects or components located below the regulatory flood elevation
shall be securely anchored or affixed to prevent flotation.
(12)ย
Floors, Walls and Ceilings.
(a)ย
Wood flooring used at or below the regulatory flood elevation
shall be installed to accommodate a lateral expansion of the flooring,
perpendicular to the flooring grain without causing structural damage
to the building.
(b)ย
Plywood used at or below the regulatory flood elevation shall
be designed and constructed of materials that are "water-resistant"
and will withstand inundation.
(c)ย
Walls and ceilings at or below the regulatory flood elevation
shall be designed and constructed of materials that are "water-resistant"
and will withstand inundation.
(d)ย
Windows, doors and other components at or below the regulatory
flood elevation shall be made of metal or other "water-resistant"
material.
(13)ย
Paints and Adhesives.
(a)ย
Paints and other finishes used at or below the regulatory flood
elevation shall be of "marine" or "water-resistant" quality.
(b)ย
Adhesives used at or below the regulatory flood elevation shall
be of a "marine" or "water-resistant" variety.
(c)ย
All wooden components (doors, trim, cabinets, etc.) shall be
finished with a "marine" or "water-resistant" paint or other finishing
material.
(14)ย
(15)ย
Equipment.
(a)ย
Water heaters, furnaces, air conditioning and ventilating units
and other electrical, mechanical or utility equipment or apparatus
shall not be located below the regulatory flood elevation.
(16)ย
Fuel Supply Systems. All gas and oil supply systems shall be
designed to prevent the infiltration of flood waters into the system
and discharges from the system into flood waters. Additional provisions
shall be made for the drainage of these systems in the event that
flood water infiltration occurs.
O.ย
Special Requirements for Manufactured Homes. Where permitted within
any identified floodplain area, all manufactured homes, and any improvements
thereto, shall be:
P.ย
Special Requirements for Recreational Vehicles. Within any identified
floodplain area, recreational vehicles shall be prohibited. If a variance
is obtained in accordance with the criteria in this section, then
the following provisions apply:
Q.ย
Special Requirements for Subdivision and Development. All subdivision
proposals and development proposals containing at least 50 lots or
at least five acres, whichever is the lesser, in identified floodplain
areas where base flood elevation data are not available, shall be
supported by hydrologic and hydraulic engineering analyses that determine
base flood elevations and floodway information. The analyses shall
be prepared by a licensed professional engineer in a format required
by FEMA for a Conditional Letter of Map Revision and Letter of Map
Revision. Submittal requirements and processing fees shall be the
responsibility of the applicant.
R.ย
Administration.
(1)ย
Designation of the Floodplain Administrator. The Spring Township
Zoning Officer is hereby appointed to administer, keep all records
and enforce this section and is referred to herein as the Floodplain
Administrator. The Floodplain Administrator may: (a) Fulfill the duties
and responsibilities set forth in these regulations, (b) Delegate
duties and responsibilities set forth in these regulations to qualified
technical personnel, plan examiners, inspectors, and other employees,
or (c) Enter into a written agreement or written contract with another
agency or private sector entity to administer specific provisions
of these regulations. Administration of any part of these regulations
by another entity shall not relieve the community of its responsibilities
pursuant to the participation requirements of the National Flood Insurance
Program as set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations at 44 CFR
59.22.
In the absence of a designated Floodplain Administrator, the
Floodplain Administrator duties are to be fulfilled by the Township
Manager.
The Floodplain Administrator shall maintain in perpetuity all
records associated with the requirements of this section including,
but not limited to, finished construction elevation data, permitting,
inspection and enforcement.
(2)ย
Permits Required.
(a)ย
A permit shall be required before any construction or development
is undertaken within any area of Spring Township.
(b)ย
Prior to the issuance of any permit, the Floodplain Administrator
shall review the application for the permit to determine if all other
necessary government permits required by State and Federal laws have
been obtained, such as those required by the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities
Act (Act 1966-537, as amended); the Pennsylvania Dam Safety and Encroachments
Act (Act 1978-325, as amended); the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Act
(Act 1937-394, as amended); and the U.S. Clean Water Act, ยงย 404,
33 U.S.C. ยงย 1344. No permit shall be issued until this determination
has been made.
(3)ย
Information Required. If any proposed construction or development
is located entirely or partially within any identified floodplain
area, applicants for permits shall provide all the necessary information
in sufficient detail and clarity to enable the Floodplain Administrator
to determine that:
(a)ย
All such proposals are consistent with the need to minimize
flood damage and conform with the requirements of this and all other
applicable codes and ordinances.
(b)ย
All utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electrical
and water systems are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate
flood damage.
(c)ย
Adequate drainage is provided so as to reduce exposure to flood
hazards.
(d)ย
Structures will be anchored to prevent floatation, collapse,
or lateral movement.
(e)ย
Building materials are flood-resistant.
(f)ย
Appropriate practices that minimize flood damage have been used.
(g)ย
Electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, air conditioning
equipment, and other service facilities have been designed and located
to prevent water entry or accumulation.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 807]
1.ย
All land herein as having steep slopes shall be subject to the following
regulations:
A.ย
Intent. It is the intent of this section to control the development
of land in areas containing excessive topography for the following
purposes:
(1)ย
To limit erosion and sedimentation.
(2)ย
To protect watersheds and limit increases in stormwater runoff.
(3)ย
To prevent an increase in the possibilities of landslides and
soil subsidence.
(4)ย
To maintain adequate foliage cover on hillsides.
(5)ย
Protect streams from increases in sediment pollution.
B.ย
Permitted Uses. Steep slopes may be used as permitted by the district
within which they are located, subject to the additional requirements
below.
C.ย
Principles of Development. Wherever possible, structures and grading
of land shall only be located on portions of a lot where the slope
is less than 25% as herein defined. However, where it is necessary
to use steep slopes to permit development of a lot, all such proposals
shall, in addition to other applicable regulations of this chapter,
be in accordance with the following principles of development. All
development on steep slopes shall:
(1)ย
Be oriented so that grading and other site preparations are
kept to an absolute minimum.
(2)ย
Where grading is essential, shape such grading to complement
the natural land form.
(3)ย
Be staged where necessary to complete construction of each stage
during a season so that large areas of disturbed land are not left
bare and exposed during the winter-spring runoff period.
(4)ย
Accomplish all paving as rapidly as possible after grading.
(5)ย
Allocate to open space and recreation uses those areas least
suited to development, as evidenced by competent soils, geology and
hydrology investigations.
(6)ย
Landscape areas around structures to blend them with the natural
landscape.
(7)ย
Take measures to minimize erosion and sedimentation and to limit
increases in stormwater runoff in accordance with other ordinances
and regulation of this Township and the laws and regulations of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
D.ย
Site Plan Review. All applications for zoning permits for lots, uses and structures located, in whole or in part, on land with steep slopes shall submit, along with the application, a site plan as required by Part 11 of this chapter. Such application shall also include a stormwater runoff plan as required by the applicable ordinance and a copy of the erosion and sedimentation control plan as required by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 808]
1.ย
All uses of land and structures shall be prohibited which:
A.ย
Produce heat or vibration perceptible by human senses beyond any
lot line.
B.ย
Produce glare from any process which emits harmful ultraviolet rays,
including arc welding and acetylene torch cutting, perceptible beyond
the lot line.
C.ย
Produce electromagnetic radiation or radioactive emissions injurious
to human beings, animals or vegetation or which interference with
the use of any other property.
D.ย
Produce loud or high pitched noises that are found offensive in the
opinion of the Code Officer and the general Township.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 809]
1.ย
The outdoor storage of materials shall be subject to the following
requirements:
A.ย
All outdoor storage of materials and products, except finished products
for retail sale to public, in designated areas, in any district, shall
be completely screened from view from the public by a sight obscuring
evergreen planting, fence or wall, that shall be a height of six feet.
B.ย
All discarded organic rubbish stored outdoors shall be placed in
watertight, vermin-proof containers. Said containers shall be screened
by such methods to conceal from view of the general public.
C.ย
All hazardous materials and flammable material stored on site must
meet Department of Environmental Protection and Environmental Protection
Agency guidelines and show evidence of such compliance.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 810]
All methods and plans for disposal of sewage and wastes shall
be designed in accordance with regulations of the Pennsylvania Department
of Environmental Protection pertaining thereto. A required sewage
permit issues by the Sewage Enforcement Officer or the appropriate
sewage authority shall be a prerequisite to the issuance of a zoning
permit.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 811]
The illumination of any lot, use or structure shall be arranged
in such a manner that the direct rays of the light source shall not
enter any dwelling unit or fall within the right-of-way of any public
street or highway. The parking area and any other areas that have
access by the general public shall be completely illuminated with
a minimum of 0.5 foot candle of light per square foot.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 812]
Unless otherwise regulated by this chapter, any vacant portion
of a lot not in use shall be planted with grass or similar vegetation,
and/or trees and shrubs, except for farm uses and gardens left vacant
outside the growing season.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 813]
1.ย
The following additional regulations shall apply to any property
listed on the National Register of Historic Places or to any property
or portion thereof located within 500 feet of such historic property:
A.ย
The following uses are prohibited regardless of other zoning district
regulations for the lands so affected:
(1)ย
Retail establishments for the sale and service and rental of
aircraft, boat and marine supplies, contractors and farm equipment,
mobile homes and accessories, motor vehicles and accessories, including
automobile service stations and garages, and swimming pools.
(2)ย
All drive-in primary and/or accessory commercial uses.
(3)ย
Beer distributors.
(4)ย
Convenience food stores.
(5)ย
Fast-food restaurants.
(6)ย
Lumberyards and glass distributors.
(7)ย
Animal hospitals and veterinary offices.
(8)ย
All mobile homes, even if placed on a permanent foundation.
B.ย
No structure shall exceed 35 feet in height, subject however, to
the exception and computation provisions specified in this chapter.
C.ย
For all commercial, industrial and multifamily primary and accessory
uses located within 500 feet of any historic property, a buffer yard
of evergreen trees is required along the property boundary (or portion
thereof within five-hundred-foot limit) to the extent necessary to
form a visual screen of said uses from the historic property. Such
buffer yard shall be installed at the time of development, change
in use or expansion in ground coverage by 50% or more of any commercial,
industrial or multifamily primary and/or accessory structure or use
in accordance with applicable design standards of this chapter.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 814; as amended by Ord.
2012-04, 5/7/2012]
1.ย
Temporary uses shall be permitted only in the zoning districts specified
and according to the requirements of this section and shall be required
to obtain a zoning permit. This section shall not apply to accessory
uses allowed under the district regulations nor to temporary uses
that are clearly incidental to a permanent use. Other temporary uses
not specifically allowed by this section are prohibited:
A.ย
B.ย
General Regulations. All temporary uses shall meet the following
requirements:
(1)ย
The above temporary uses shall at least meet the smallest lot
and yard requirements listed in the zoning district in which they
are located.
(2)ย
The above temporary uses shall be required to provide off-street
parking spaces but shall be exempt from all other parking regulations
in Part 7. The above temporary uses shall provide the following number
of parking spaces:
Use
|
Number of spaces
| |
---|---|---|
Carnival or circus
|
1 per 4 persons based on maximum capacity
| |
Christmas tree sales
|
1 per 250 square feet of retail area, plus 1 per employee
| |
Contractor's office
|
1 per employee
| |
Education, artistic recreational events
|
1 per 4 persons based on maximum capacity
| |
Religious services
|
1 per 4 persons based on maximum capacity
| |
Seasonal sale of farm produce
|
1 per 250 square feet of retail floor area, plus 1 per employee
| |
Auction or livestock exhibition
|
1 per 4 persons based on maximum capacity
|
(4)ย
Temporary uses that are required to submit a site plan under ยงย 27-1104 may be exempt from said requirement by the Township Planning Commission.
(5)ย
All temporary uses shall be provided with adequate sanitary
facilities.
(6)ย
At the end of the specified allowed time period, the temporary
use and all debris shall be removed. A cash bond for a minimum of
$25, and not to exceed $5,000, shall be posted or a signed contract
with a disposal firm shall be required as a part of the application
for the temporary use to ensure that all debris is removed. Portions
of the cash bond may also be required to ensure the repair of any
damage done to the Township right-of-way.
(7)ย
At the end of the allowed time period, the temporary use shall
be removed. A new permit allowing the same temporary use at the same
location may not be issued for a period of 10 months from the date
the original permit was issued.
(8)ย
No zoning permit shall be issued for a temporary use unless
all regulations governing peddling and soliciting have been met by
the applicant.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 815]
1.ย
AIRPORT ELEVATIONS
APPROACH SURFACE
APPROACH, TRANSITIONAL, HORIZONTAL AND CONICAL ZONES
CONICAL SURFACE
HAZARD TO AIR NAVIGATION
HORIZONTAL SURFACE
LARGER THAN UTILITY RUNWAY
NONPRECISION INSTRUMENT RUNWAY
OBSTRUCTION
PRECISION INSTRUMENT RUNWAY
PRIMARY SURFACE
TRANSITIONAL SURFACES
UTILITY RUNWAY
VISUAL RUNWAY
Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise
requires, the following terms shall have the meaning assigned:
The highest point of an airport's usable landing area measured
in feet from sea level.
A surface longitudinally centered on the extended runway
center line, extending outward and upward from the end of the primary
surface and at the same slope as the approach zone height limitation
slope set forth in this section. In plan the perimeter of the approach
surface coincides with the perimeter of the approach zone.
These zones are set forth in this section.
A surface extending outward and upward from the periphery
of the horizontal surface at a slope of 20 to one for a horizontal
distance of 4,000 feet.
An obstruction determined to have substantial adverse effect
on the safe and efficient utilization of the navigable airspace.
A horizontal plane 150 feet above the established airport
elevation, the perimeter of which in plan coincides with the perimeter
of the horizontal zone.
A runway that is constructed for and intended to be used
by propeller driven aircraft of greater than 12,500 pounds maximum
gross weight and jet powered aircraft.
A runway having an existing instrument approach procedure
utilizing air navigation facilities with only horizontal guidance,
or area type navigation equipment, for which a straight-in nonprecision
instrument approach procedure has been approved or planned.
Any structure, growth or other object, including a mobile
object, which exceeds a limiting height set forth in this section.
A runway having an existing instrument approach procedure
utilizing an instrument landing system (ILS) or a precision approach
radar (PAR). It also means a runway for which a precision approach
system is planned and is so indicated on an approved airport layout
plan or any other planning document.
A surface longitudinally centered on a runway. When the runway
has a specially prepared hard surface, the primary surface extends
200 feet beyond each end of that runway; for military runways or when
the runway has no specially prepared hard surface, or planned hard
surface, the primary surface ends at each end of that runway. The
elevation of any point on the primary surface is the same as the elevation
of the nearest point on the runway center line.
These surfaces extend outward at 90ยฐ angles to the runway
center line and the runway center line extended at a slope of seven
feet horizontally for each foot vertically from the sides of the primary
and approach surfaces to where they intersect the horizontal and conical
surfaces. Transitional surfaces for those portions of the precision
approach surfaces, which project through and beyond the limits of
the conical surface, extend a distance of 5,000 feet, measured horizontally
from the edge of the approach surface and at a 90ยฐ angle to the
extended runway center line.
A runway that is constructed for and intended to be used
by propeller driven aircraft of 12,500 pounds maximum gross weight
and less.
A runway intended solely for the operation of aircraft using
visual approach procedures.
2.ย
CONICAL ZONE
HORIZONTAL ZONE
PRECISION INSTRUMENT RUNWAY APPROACH ZONE
RUNWAY LARGER THAN UTILITY VISUAL APPROACH ZONE
RUNWAY LARGER THAN UTILITY WITH A VISIBILITY MINIMUM AS LOW
AS 1/4 MILE NONPRECISION INSTRUMENT APPROACH ZONE
RUNWAY LARGER THAN UTILITY WITH A VISIBILITY MINIMUM GREATER
THAN 3/4 MILE NONPRECISION INSTRUMENT APPROACH ZONE
TRANSITIONAL ZONES
UTILITY RUNWAY NONPRECISION INSTRUMENT APPROACH ZONE
UTILITY RUNWAY VISUAL APPROACH ZONE
Airport Zones. In order to carry out the provisions of this section,
there are hereby created and established certain zones which include
all of the land lying beneath the approach surfaces, transitional
surfaces, horizontal surfaces and conical surfaces as they apply to
airports in the Township. Such zones are shown approximately on the
Zoning Map. An area located in more than one of the following zones
is considered to be only in the zone with the more restrictive height
limitation. The various zones are hereby established and defined as
follows:
The conical zone is established as the area that commences
at the periphery of the horizontal zone and extends outward there
from a horizontal distance of 4,000 feet.
The horizontal zone is established by swinging arcs of 5,000
feet radii from the center of each end of the primary surface of each
runway and connecting the adjacent arcs by drawing lines tangent to
those arcs. The horizontal zone does not include the approach and
transitional zones.
The inner edge of this approach zone coincides with the width
of the primary surface and is 1,000 feet wide. The approach zone expands
outward uniformly to a width of 16,000 feet at a horizontal distance
of 50,000 feet from the primary surface. Its center line is the continuation
of the center line of the runway.
The inner edge of this approach zone coincides with the width
of the primary surface and is 500 feet wide. The approach zone expands
outward uniformly to a width of 1,500 feet at a horizontal distance
of 5,000 feet from the primary surface. Its center line is the continuation
of the center line of the runway.
The inner edge of this approach zone coincides with the width
of the primary surface and is 1,000 feet wide. The approach zone expands
outward uniformly to a width of 4,000 feet at a horizontal distance
of 10,000 feet from the primary surface. Its center line is the continuation
of the center line of the runway.
The inner edge of this approach zone coincides with the width
of the primary surface and is 500 feet wide. The approach zone expands
outward uniformly to a width of 3,500 feet at a horizontal distance
of 10,000 feet from the primary surface. Its center line is the continuation
of the center line of the runway.
The transitional zones are the areas beneath the transitional
surfaces.
The inner edge of this approach zone coincides with the width
of the primary surface and is 500 feet wide. The approach zone expands
outward uniformly to a width of 2,000 feet at a horizontal distance
5,000 feet from the primary surface. Its center line is the continuation
of the center line of the runway.
The inner edge of this approach zone coincides with the width
of the primary surface and is 250 feet wide. The approach zone expands
outward uniformly to a width of 1,250 feet at a horizontal distance
of 5,000 feet from the primary surface. Its center line is the continuation
of the center line of the runway.
3.ย
Airport Zone Height Limitations. Except as otherwise provided in
this section, no structure shall be erected, altered or maintained,
and no tree shall be allowed to grow in any zone created by this section
to a height in excess of the applicable height limit herein established
for such zone. Such applicable height limitations are hereby established
for each of the zones in question as follows:
A.ย
Utility Runway Visual Approach Zone. Slopes 20 feet outward for each
foot upward beginning at the end of and at the same elevation as the
primary surface and extending to a horizontal distance of 5,000 along
the extended runway center line.
B.ย
Utility Runway Nonprecision Instrument Approach Zone. Slopes 20 feet
outward for each foot upward beginning at the end of and at the same
elevation as the primary surface and extending to a horizontal distance
of 5,000 feet along the extended runway center line.
C.ย
Runway Larger Than Utility Visual Approval Zone. Slopes 20 feet outward
for each foot upward beginning at the end of and at the same elevation
as the primary surface and extending to a horizontal distance of 5,000
feet along the extended runway center line.
D.ย
Runway Larger than Utility with a Visibility Minimum Greater than
3/5 Mile Nonprecision Instrument Approach Zone. Slopes 34 feet outward
for each foot upward beginning at the end of and at the same elevation
as the primary surface and extending to a horizontal distance of 10,000
feet along the extended runway center line.
E.ย
Runway Larger than Utility with a Visibility Minimum as Low as 1/4
Mile Nonprecision Instrument Approach Zone. Slopes 34 feet outward
for each foot upward beginning at the end of and at the same elevation
as the primary surface and extending to a horizontal distance of 10,000
feet along the extended runway center line.
F.ย
Precision Instrument Runway Approach Zone. Slopes 50 feet outward
for each foot upward beginning at the end of and at the same elevation
as the primary surface and extending to a horizontal distance of 10,000
feet along the extended runway center line; thence slopes upward 40
feet horizontally for each foot vertically to an additional horizontal
distance of 40,000 feet along the extended runway center line.
G.ย
Heliport Approach Zone. Slopes eight feet outward for each foot upward
beginning at the end of and at the same elevation as the primary surface
and extending to a distance of 4,000 feet along the heliport approach
zone center line.
H.ย
Transitional Zones. Slope seven feet outward for each foot upward
beginning at the sides of and at the same elevation as the primary
surface and the approach surface, and extending to a height of 150
feet above the airport elevation which is 1,241 feet above mean sea
level. In addition to the foregoing, there are established height
limits sloping seven feet outward for each foot upward beginning at
the sides of and at the same elevation as the approach surface, and
extending to where they intersect the conical surface. Where the precision
instrument runway approach zone projects beyond the conical zone,
there are established height limits sloping seven feet outward for
each foot upward beginning at the sides of and at the same elevation
as the approach surface, and extending a horizontal distance of 5,000
feet measured at 90ยฐ angles to the extended runway center line.
I.ย
Heliport Transitional Zones. Slope two feet outward for each foot
upward beginning at the sides of and at the same elevation as the
primary surface and the heliport approach zones and extending a distance
of 250 feet measured horizontally from and at 90ยฐ angles to the
primary surface center line and heliport approach zones center line.
J.ย
Horizontal Zone. Established at 150 feet above the airport elevation.
K.ย
Conical Zone. Slopes 20 feet outward for each foot upward beginning
at the periphery of the horizontal zone and at 150 feet above the
airport elevation and extending to a height of 350 feet above the
airport elevation.
4.ย
Use Restrictions. Not withstanding any other provision of this section,
no use may be made of land or water within any zone established by
this section in such a manner as to create electrical interference
with navigational signals or radio communication between the airport
and aircraft, make it difficult for pilots to distinguish between
airport lights and others, result in glare in the eyes of pilots using
the airport, impair visibility in the vicinity of the airport, create
bird strike hazards or otherwise in any way endanger or interfere
with the landing, takeoff or maneuvering of aircraft intending to
use the airport.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 816]
1.ย
Intent. The following conditions are intended to provide for the
use of portable storage units for temporary storage within the Nittany
Valley Region while providing reasonable protection to the municipality
and to the neighborhood in which the units will be located against
possible detrimental effects.
2.ย
General Requirements. Portable storage units shall not be permitted
as permanent accessory structures in any zoning district. Such units
shall be permitted as a temporary use in the following districts subject
to the following requirements:
A.ย
Portable storage units may be located in any residential zoning district
and in the A-2, and IC, HC Districts. Such units shall be set back
a minimum of 10 feet from the front property line.
B.ย
Portable storage units may be allowed in nonresidential zoning district
so long as the unit is placed in the rear or side yard area of the
site. Under no circumstances shall a portable storage unit be placed
in an area fronting a street or road, or in a grass/landscaped area,
or in the front parking lot of a commercial establishment. The placement
of portable storage units in fire lanes, passenger loading zones,
commercial loading zones, or public rights-of-way shall be strictly
prohibited.
C.ย
Placement of portable storage units shall occur with the concurrence
of the Zoning Officer after demonstrating that the specific location
can sufficiently accommodate the unit and continue to provide adequate
parking and public safety access and provide for the general health,
safety, and welfare of nearby residents. Under no circumstances shall
a unit be placed so as to interfere with any use of a sidewalk, bike
path, or public right of way.
D.ย
No more than one portable storage unit per site may be permitted
in any residential zoning district. Such units shall be no larger
than eight feet wide by 16 feet long by eight feet high.
E.ย
No more than two portable storage units per site may be permitted
in any nonresidential zoning district. Such units shall be no larger
than eight feet wide by 40 feet long by eight feet high.
F.ย
Portable storage units shall not remain at any site within a residential
zoning district in excess of five consecutive days or in excess of
10 days in any calendar year. No portable storage unit shall remain
at any nonresidential site in excess of 14 consecutive days or in
excess of 30 days in any calendar year.
G.ย
The owner and/or operator of any site on which a portable storage
unit is placed shall be responsible for ensuring that the unit is
in good condition and free from evidence of deterioration, weathering,
discoloration, rust, holes, etc.
H.ย
No form of waste, refuse, or hazardous material shall be stored within
a portable storage unit.
I.ย
A portable storage unit shall have no signage other than a serial
number identifying the unit, the name, address, and telephone number
of the person or firm engaged in the business of renting or otherwise
placing the unit.
J.ย
A permit shall be required for the placement of a portable storage
unit on any property within the municipality. Application for a permit
shall be made to the Zoning Officer. Said application shall include
the signature of the property owner or the owner's agent in order
to ensure that the owner has full knowledge of, and consents to, placement
of the portable storage unit on his or her property and consents to
conform to the provisions of this Part.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 817; as amended by Ord.
2009-02, 4/6/2009]
1.ย
Intent. The following conditions are intended to provide for the
siting and operating of on-site horticultural, farm, and garden sales
establishments within Spring Township while providing reasonable protection
to the municipality and to the neighborhood in which the facility
will be located against possible detrimental effects.
2.ย
General Site Requirements.
A.ย
A minimum of 50% of the farm/garden products sold at the facility
must be produced on the property.
B.ย
A minimum of three off street parking spaces shall be provided.
C.ย
Sales of such products may be conducted from a portable stand located
behind the street right-of-way line. Such stand(s) shall be removed
or dismantled at the end of the growing season. All permanent buildings
shall comply with all applicable zoning district requirements.
D.ย
The floor area of any portable stand and/or permanent building shall
not exceed 600 square feet.
E.ย
The siting and operation of any on-site horticultural farm and garden
sale facility shall not create a threat to the public health, safety
and/or welfare or the community.
F.ย
No outdoor lighting shall be permitted.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 818]
1.ย
Intent. The following conditions are intended to provide for the
siting and operating of golf course facilities within the Nittany
Valley Region while providing reasonable protection to the municipality
and to the neighborhood in which the facility will be located against
possible detrimental effects.
2.ย
General Site Requirements.
A.ย
Minimum tract size for a golf course shall be 100 acres.
B.ย
No golfing green or fairway shall be closer than 100 feet to any
lot line, except for miniature golf facilities where the underlying
zoning district setbacks shall apply.
C.ย
Golfing tees, tee boxes, and greens for the same fairway or range
may not be separated by a street. Access drives shall be located in
such a manner as to provide maximum site distances for motorists.
D.ย
Driving ranges shall have screens or fences of a height and location
sufficient to prevent golf balls from landing on adjoining properties.
E.ย
Site boundary areas if wooded shall remain wooded to the greatest
extent practicable.
F.ย
An illumination plan shall be required. Lighting on the site shall
use full cut-off fixtures with shielding in appropriate areas to limit
spillover onto adjacent properties.
G.ย
Accessory and incidental uses (including pro shop and eating and
drinking establishment) shall be permitted; however, such uses shall
only continue as long as the golf course is in operation.
H.ย
Parking shall be per required parking section in this chapter.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 819]
1.ย
Intent. The following conditions are intended to provide for the
siting and operating of cemeteries within the Nittany Valley Region
while providing reasonable protection to the municipality and to the
neighborhood in which the facility will be located against possible
detrimental effects.
2.ย
General Requirements. Any person desiring to establish or maintain
a cemetery or extend the boundaries of any existing cemetery shall
file an application for a land redevelopment plan which shall include
the following additional information:
A.ย
The names, addresses and applicable State licenses of all officers
and directors of the corporation or organization which will be in
charge of the operation of the cemetery.
B.ย
A map showing the exact location, exterior boundaries and legal description
of the property which is proposed to be used for a cemetery or extension
of an existing cemetery. Said map shall also show any water sources,
bodies of water, and/or wells existing on site or within 300 feet
of the exterior boundaries of the property along with cemetery buildings
and burial plots.
C.ย
A proposal for the perpetual care of the facility and proof of financial
ability to develop and maintain the facility in such a manner as to
prevent the proposed cemetery from becoming a public nuisance.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 820]
1.ย
Intent. The following conditions are intended to provide for the
siting and operating of bed and breakfast establishments within the
Nittany Valley Region while providing reasonable protection to the
municipality and to the neighborhood in which the facility will be
located against possible detrimental effects. In addition to the underlying
district regulations specified in this chapter, all bed and breakfast
establishments, either homes or inns, shall meet the following requirements:
A.ย
The owner of the facility must physically reside on-site during all
periods that the facility is open to the public and that guests are
housed.
B.ย
The building and parking areas shall be located and maintained in
a manner compatible with the general character of the surrounding
neighborhood. Exterior alterations, additions, or changes to the dwelling
unit in order to accommodate or facilitate a bed and breakfast establishment
shall retain the residential character of the dwelling unit and the
surrounding neighborhood.
C.ย
One off-street parking space shall be provided for each guest room
in addition to any other required parking for the primary use. All
such parking shall be unobtrusive. Parking within an agricultural
or conservation district shall be located and/or landscaped in such
a manner that it is screened from the view of adjacent properties.
On-street guest parking shall not be permitted in any district.
D.ย
Signage for bed and breakfast establishments shall be consistent
with the requirements set forth in Supplemental Regulations - "Signs"
for the appropriate zoning district and use.
E.ย
No outdoor storage shall be permitted other than that which would
be permitted under existing zoning.
F.ย
Meals for compensation shall be provided only to guests of the bed
and breakfast establishment. No cooking or kitchen facilities shall
be permitted in any of the guest room units.
G.ย
The length of stay per guest shall be limited to seven consecutive
days and 21 total days in any twelve-month period.
H.ย
In order to ensure compliance with all aforementioned criteria, the
applicant shall be required to submit a general site plan and obtain
a zoning permit prior to receiving guests for compensation.
I.ย
Permits required for the establishment and operation of a bed and
breakfast establishment shall not be automatically transferred upon
the sale of the subject property. Permits shall not be transferable
from one location to another.
J.ย
Bed and breakfast establishments shall comply with all applicable
Federal, State, and local regulations.
K.ย
Use of a single-family detached residential dwelling unit as a bed
and breakfast establishment shall not constitute an abandonment of
single-family residential use as a use by right.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007, ยงย 821]
1.ย
Intent. To provide housing that is affordable for the work force
in our community, this could include the elderly and single headed
families.
2.ย
General Requirements.
A.ย
The developer shall make provisions to accommodate work force housing,
as per district regulations.
B.ย
To provide housing for those incomes between 60% and 120% of the
AMI (area median income) of Centre County as calculated by the Federal
Government and adjusted annually for family size. One-half of these
units shall fall within the 60% to 90% range and 1/2 shall fall within
91% to 120% range.
C.ย
Deed restrictions shall include the restriction to the use, activity
and/or limitations of property rights recorded at the Recorder of
Deeds office. This shall include a cap on the return of investment
of 5% per year. This shall remain with the property for a period of
40 years.
D.ย
This program shall be coordinated between the developer and a non-profit
community housing trust.
[Ord. 2007-03, 5/2/2007; as added by Ord. 2010-01, 4/5/2010]
1.ย
Intent. To provide regulations to promote the safe, effective and
efficient use of alternate energy systems installed to reduce on-site
consumption of utility-supplied energy and to reduce our carbon footprint
as an accessory use while protecting the health, safety and welfare
of adjacent properties and surrounding land uses.
2.ย
General Requirements.
A.ย
Windmills for Energy Generation Systems.
(1)ย
Windmills for energy generation systems shall be permitted as
an accessory use in accordance with this section. It shall be the
applicant's burden to demonstrate satisfaction of all requirements.
(2)ย
Except as otherwise provided in the this chapter, windmills
shall be considered accessory structures and the generation of energy
as an accessory use only in accordance with this section. Power generated
by a windmill under this section shall not exceed 10 KW. There shall
be no commercial use of the windmills for the generation of energy,
except for that energy generated in excess of the requirements of
the property and purchased by a public utility in accordance with
the law or other government regulations.
(3)ย
One acre minimum lot size is required.
(4)ย
Wind energy generation shall be limited to one windmill per
lot or tract of land.
(5)ย
The maximum height of any windmill, measured from the average
approved finished grade at the perimeter of the windmill foundation
to the highest vertical point of a blade at its maximum vertical position
shall not exceed 45 feet.
(6)ย
No windmill shall be placed in a front yard setback.
(7)ย
Only single pole (monopole) windmill structures shall be permitted.
A windmill pole shall be self-supporting upon its foundation (i.e.,
no guy wires).
(8)ย
No windmill shall be placed closer to a property line, utility
line, structure or fuel source than the distance measured by its height
plus 10% of its height (measured in feet).
(9)ย
No windmill blade at its lowest point shall be closer to the
surface of the ground than 15 feet.
(10)ย
The proposed location of the windmill shall be demonstrated
to minimize view obstruction of neighboring properties. In addition,
the design color and other visual features of the windmill shall be
designed and installed in such a manner so as to create the least
visual impact practicable. The applicant shall demonstrate compliance
with this section, by among other things, providing photographic perspectives
of the proposed site from all sides of the property, adjacent road
ways and neighboring properties.
(11)ย
The proposed location and operation of the windmill shall be
demonstrated not to interfere with any broadcast, radio, wireless
or other telecommunication signals or facilities. In all cases, the
location of a windmill shall be clear of and shall not interfere with
any existing trees, structures, wires and the like.
(12)ย
All utilities, lines, cables, wires and other connections to
or from the windmill and any other structure associated with the windmill
shall be below grade.
(13)ย
Windmills shall not be lighted except as otherwise required
by law.
(14)ย
There shall be no antennae, advertising or other items or materials
affixed to or otherwise placed on the windmill, except those required
for safety purposes.
(15)ย
A site plan shall be submitted. Applications submitted without
a site plan shall be returned to the applicant as incomplete. The
site plan shall contain at a minimum, in addition to the other requirements
of this section, the following:
(16)ย
Construction Details.
(a)ย
Complete structural and construction details, including narrative
descriptions, demonstrating how the foundation and support and other
parts of the windmill will be constructed, installed and maintained,
together with the safety features proposed to prohibit unauthorized
access.
(b)ย
All new structures, together with any alterations to or modifications
of existing structures, proposed in connection with the windmill.
(c)ย
Information regarding the speed of operation and the braking
mechanism(s). No windmills shall be permitted which lack an automatic
braking, governing or feathering system to prevent uncontrolled rotation,
overspeeding and/or excessive pressure on the windmill or any of its
component parts.
(d)ย
Plans and specifications to be certified by a registered professional
engineer.
(17)ย
The Township may require the submission of additional information
at any time it deems necessary to process the permit application.
(18)ย
Removal of Windmills.
(a)ย
Any windmill which is in a state of disrepair and has not been
active and in continuous service for a period of one year shall be
removed from the property to a place of safe and legal disposal.
(b)ย
All structures and enclosures accessory to the windmill shall
also be completely removed from the property to a place of safe and
legal disposal.
(19)ย
Certifications and Inspections.
(a)ย
A windmill shall not be constructed until a building permit
has been approved and issued per the PA Uniform Construction Code
(UCC).
(b)ย
All wiring shall comply with the applicable version of the National
Electric Code (NEC). The local utility provider shall be contacted
to determine grid interconnection and net metering policies. The applicant
shall submit certificates of design compliance obtained by the equipment
manufacturers from a certifying organization and any such design shall
be certified by an engineer registered in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
(c)ย
Prior to commencement of construction on any windmill the property
owner must acknowledge that he/she is the responsible party for owning
and maintaining the windmill. If the windmill is abandoned or is in
a state of disrepair it shall be the responsibility of the property
owner to remove or maintain the windmill.
(20)ย
No windmill shall commence operation until the Township has
certified in writing that the conditions of this section have been
satisfied and the windmill has been constructed and installed in accordance
with the approved plans and specifications.
C.ย
Outdoor Wood-Fired Boilers.
(1)ย
Minimum Acreage. No person shall install an outdoor wood-fired
boiler except on parcels of land greater than three acres.
(2)ย
Setbacks. No person shall install an outdoor wood-fired boiler
unless it is installed at least 150 feet from the nearest property
line.
(3)ย
Permits Required. No person shall install or operate a new or
existing outdoor wood-fired boiler unless a building permit is obtained
from the responsible official. Property owner or authorized agent
must obtain a building permit for a new outdoor wood-fired boiler
prior to installation with all applicable fees established by Spring
Township resolution. Certification of compliance with Phase two outdoor
wood-fired boiler standards shall be submitted with application. A
site plan and other information shall accompany the application as
required by the responsible official.
[Added by Ord. 02-17, 8/7/2017]
1.ย
Intent.
It is the intent of this section to provide conditions for the siting
and operation of medical marijuana dispensaries and growing/processing
facilities which will ensure the safety and security of the facilities,
municipality and surrounding neighborhoods in which the facility will
be located against possible detrimental effects.
2.ย
General
Requirements.
A.ย
Local
and State Laws. All medical marijuana dispensary and medical marijuana
growing/processing establishments shall comply with all applicable
local and state laws and regulations regarding the location and operation
of said facilities.
B.ย
No medical
marijuana dispensary or medical marijuana growing/processing facility
shall be located within 1,000 feet of any school or child day care.
C.ย
A site
plan shall be required to address local regulations.
[Added by Ord. No. 01-2022, 2/7/2022]
1.ย
The keeping of backyard chickens shall be permitted as an accessory
use to an established primary residential use on a property provided
the following conditions are met:
A.ย
The primary residential use shall be a single family residential
structure and shall be located within one of the following zoning
districts:
B.ย
Applicability. The provisions contained herein regarding backyard
chickens shall not apply to those lots 10 acres or greater in size.
No part of this section shall permit the keeping of backyard chickens
where such is otherwise prohibited by restrictions, covenants, homeowners
association regulations or other provisions.
C.ย
Yard Setbacks.
(1)ย
Any chicken coop or chicken run shall not be permitted within
the front or side yards of a lot.
(2)ย
No chicken coop or chicken run shall be permitted within 10
feet from any property lot line.
(3)ย
No chicken coop or chicken run shall be permitted within 10
feet of any occupied structure on the property containing the chicken
coop or chicken run.
(4)ย
The chicken coop or chicken run shall be no closer than 30 feet
to an existing occupied building on adjoining/neighboring properties.
(5)ย
The chicken coop or chicken run shall be placed so that it is
closer to the owner's occupied structures than that of an adjoining
property owner's occupied structures as measured to the closest
point of all occupied structures.
(6)ย
In all instances, whether there is an adjoining occupied building
or not, the chicken coop and chicken run shall not be located within
the building setback area established by the zoning district in which
the chicken coop and chicken run is located.
D.ย
Number of Chickens. No more than four chicken hens shall be kept
per property where backyard chickens are permitted.
E.ย
Chicken hens shall be kept for personal use only. No person shall
engage in chicken breeding, raising or fertilizer production for commercial
purposes. A rooster (male chicken) may not be kept in Spring Township
on tracts of land which are less than 10 acres in size.
F.ย
Chicken Coops and Runs.
(1)ย
A maximum of one chicken coop and chicken run is permitted per
property which is less than 10 acres in size.
(2)ย
All chicken hens shall be housed in an enclosed coop, which
allows them to be secured at night. Coops shall have walls, roof and
a floor with no wired sides.
(3)ย
The minimum coop size shall be three square feet per chicken.
The maximum coop size shall be six square feet per chicken.
(4)ย
A chicken run is permitted when attached to a coop.
(5)ย
If a chicken run is provided, it shall be no larger than 10
square feet per chicken and shall be enclosed in a way that contains
the chickens.
(6)ย
Chicken coop and chicken run shall be maintained with a neat,
weed and other debris-free appearance.
(7)ย
Chicken coop shall be on a slab or built at least one foot off
the ground so that rodents and other animals cannot dig and live under
the coop.
(8)ย
If a coop and chicken run are no longer used for a period of
one year, the coop and outside run must be removed from the property.
(9)ย
Coop and chicken run shall be screened from the view at ground
level from adjacent lots by using fencing, landscaping or a combination
thereof.
G.ย
Administration and Enforcement. All violations of the provisions noted above as well as requirement for obtaining a permit for the keeping of chicken hens shall be in accordance with Part 11, Administration and Enforcement, of this chapter. The Township and/or inspectors may, at any time during normal business hours, enter and inspect said property for compliance of the Spring Township Code to ensure health, safety, morals and general welfare of the Township and its residents.
H.ย
Unlawful to Allow Chickens to Run at Large. It shall be unlawful
for the owner or owners of any chickens to allow the same to run at
large upon any of the common rights-of-way, thoroughfares, sidewalks,
passageways, play areas, common areas, parks, streets, alleys, or
public highways or any place where people congregate or walk, or upon
any public or private property in Spring Township, including any property
permitted for the keeping of chickens pursuant to this ordinance.
Any chicken not contained within an approved coop or run shall be
deemed "at large" with the following regulations:
(1)ย
Owners of chickens deemed to be "at large" shall be subject to fines established in Part 11 of this chapter.
(2)ย
Spring Township shall at its discretion deem any chicken(s)
at large to be abandoned and take possession of said chicken(s) if
it has no tags, bands or other markings providing information to determine
its owner or owners. At large chickens found where the owner cannot
be identified will be placed at the discretion of the Township.
I.ย
Sanitary Requirements for Housing Chickens. Any owner or owners of
chickens within Spring Township shall house the same at all times
under sanitary conditions so that the keeping of chickens shall not
become either a public or private nuisance. The following provisions
shall apply:
(1)ย
All chicken feces accumulated on private property shall be removed
by using the approved sanitary method of double-bagging and placement
in the trash for collection, unless composted as provided.
(2)ย
Chicken feces on private property shall not be allowed to accumulate
to the degree that they become a public health nuisance or hazard.
In cases where chicken feces do accumulate on private property, the
Township may conduct an investigation, after which the accumulation
may be declared a public health hazard or nuisance and the owner shall
be ordered to remove and dispose of the accumulated feces in an approved
manner. The order to remove such accumulated feces shall be given
personally to the owner or sent by mail, and the owner shall be given
a period of 48 hours from the date and time of receipt of the order
to clean the property and remove the accumulated feces.
J.ย
Composting. It shall be unlawful for any person to spread or cause
to be spread or deposited upon any ground or premises within the Township
any chicken manure. However, chicken manure may be composted on the
property where the chickens are housed and the composted material
then applied to gardens, yards or other yards with written permission.
All composting piles shall conform to setbacks required for chicken
coops and chicken runs.
K.ย
Slaughtering or Butchering Prohibited. Slaughtering or butchering
of chickens shall be strictly prohibited on residential property.
L.ย
Proper Storage of Feed. All feed, water and other items associated
with the keeping of chickens shall be protected in a way that prevents
infestation by rats, mice or other rodents or vectors. In order to
prevent rodents, feed shall be stored in metal containers. Failure
to keep all feed, water and other items associated with the keeping
of backyard chickens in a clean and sanitary condition constitutes
a violation of this section. Chicken hens shall have access to feed
and water at all times.
M.ย
Noise.
(1)ย
It shall be unlawful for any owner to keep or harbor any chicken
which clucks, squawks or otherwise makes audible sounds repetitively
during any given one-hour period, or which makes such noise continuously
for a period of 15 consecutive minutes or more, and which is audible
on any adjacent property or public right-of-way.
(2)ย
Upon the first and second offenses the chicken owner or keeper
shall be given written warning notices by personal service or mail.
It shall be a condition precedent to any enforcement proceeding to
show that two written warnings were issued to the chicken owner or
keeper within the previous twelve-month period.
N.ย
Permits.
(1)ย
A zoning permit and site plan shall be submitted and approved
prior to the keeping of backyard chickens on any property mentioned
herein. A zoning permit fee shall be assessed as determined by resolution
by the Spring Township Board of Supervisors.
(2)ย
Permitting Requirements. An owner shall be required to complete
the following requirements:
(a)ย
Complete an application for zoning permit.
(b)ย
Declare Work. At minimum, describe the proposed keeping of chickens
and declare the number of chickens.
(c)ย
Provide contact information of the person in charge (name, address,
phone and email).
(d)ย
Application/permit fees due on submission.
(e)ย
Provide site plan detailing deeded property lines, location
of proposed coop and run area, setbacks from property lines and all
owner's and adjoining owner's occupied structures, location(s)
and define the type of required ground-level screening, at minimum
provide the size/height/area of proposed coop and run.
O.ย
Upon presentation of proper credentials, duly authorized representatives
of the Township may enter, at reasonable times, upon any property
within the Township to inspect the condition of the permitted structures
and facilities in regard to any aspect regulated by this chapter.
P.ย
Enforcement; Violations and Penalties.
(1)ย
The Code Enforcement Officer or any other sworn officers of
the Township of Spring and/or any police officer empowered to enforce
the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania within the jurisdictional
boundaries of the Township of Spring shall hereby be authorized to
enforce the provisions of this chapter.
(2)ย
Any person who shall violate any provision of this chapter shall,
upon conviction thereof before a Magisterial District Judge, be subject
to a civil fine as set forth in this Chapter, including court costs
and reasonable attorney fees incurred by the municipality in accordance
with Section 1601(c) of the Second Class Township Code, as amended
November 9, 1995 (Public Law 350, No. 60), as amended.
(3)ย
Subsequent violations beyond the second shall result in the
permanent revocation of the permit.
[Added by Ord. No. 05-2022, 4/4/2022]
1.ย
Intent. It is the intent of this section to provide conditions for
the siting and operation of accessory solar energy systems (hereafter
denoted as ASES) and principal solar energy systems (hereafter denoted
as PSES) which will ensure the safety and security of the facilities,
municipality and surrounding neighborhoods in which the facility will
be located against possible detrimental effects.
2.ย
General Requirements.
A.ย
Local and State Laws. All ASES and PSES systems shall comply with
all applicable local and state laws and regulations and industry standards
regarding the location and operation of said facilities, including
but not limited to those of the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI), Underwriters' Laboratories (UL), the American Society
for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and other similar certifying organizations,
and shall comply with applicable construction and building codes as
enforced by Spring Township, Centre County, fire and life safety requirements,
floodplain management and stormwater management.
B.ย
All on-site utility transmission lines, plumbing and all wiring and
cabling shall be placed underground to the greatest extent feasible.
C.ย
Permit Required.
(1)ย
Zoning/building permit applications shall be required and shall
document compliance with this section and shall be accompanied by
drawings showing the location and configuration of the system on the
building or property, including property lines.
(2)ย
The zoning/building permit shall be revoked if the ASES or PSES,
whether new or preexisting, is moved or otherwise altered in a manner
which causes the ASES or PSES to not be in conformity with this section.
(3)ย
The ASES or PSES must be properly maintained and be kept free
from all hazards, including but not limited to, faulty wiring, loose
fastenings, being in an unsafe condition or detrimental to the public
health, safety or general welfare. In the event of a violation of
any of the foregoing provisions, the Zoning Officer shall give written
notice specifying the violation to the owner of the ASES or PSES to
conform or to remove the ASES or PSES.
3.ย
Accessory Solar Energy Systems (ASES). ASES shall be permitted as
an accessory use/structure in connection with any primary residential,
agricultural, recreational, commercial or industrial use when they
meet the following standards:
A.ย
Accessory solar energy systems shall be permitted as a rooftop installation
subject to the following:
(1)ย
The ASES shall not exceed a height of eight inches above the
roof when attached to a residential dwelling structure.
(2)ย
ASES used in conjunction with a commercial or industrial use
shall be screened from the view of persons at ground level by a parapet
or similar visual obstruction.
(3)ย
In no event shall the placement of an ASES result in a total
height, including the building and panels, greater than one foot greater
than the maximum building height permitted in the subject zoning district
for the principal structure
B.ย
Accessory solar energy systems shall be permitted as ground arrays
in accordance with the following standards:
(1)ย
All ground arrays shall be set back from all property lines
a distance equal to or greater than the required setback for an accessory
structure of the same square footage within the subject zoning district.
(2)ย
Ground-mounted ASES are prohibited in front yards, between the
principal building and public street.
(3)ย
When utilized as an accessory to an agricultural use, solar
ground arrays shall be set back a minimum of 100 feet from any property
line.
(4)ย
Ground-mounted arrays shall not exceed a height of 15 feet.
(5)ย
The surface area of the arrays of a ground-mounted ASES, regardless
of the mounted angle of any solar panels, shall be considered impervious
and shall be calculated as a percentage of the lot coverage.
C.ย
Other Requirements.
(1)ย
For nonresidential properties, a site plan detailing location,
square footages of ASES array, setback requirements, stormwater provisions
and other items as required shall be submitted for review and approval.
(2)ย
Upon completion, the ASES shall be maintained in good working
order in accordance with all applicable building construction codes.
Failure of the property owner to maintain the ASES in good working
order shall be grounds for appropriate enforcement actions by Spring
Township.
(3)ย
The owner of an ASES shall provide Spring Township with written
confirmation that the public utility company to which the ASES will
be connected has been informed of the customer's intent to install
a grid system and approve of such connection. Off-grid systems shall
be exempt from this requirement.
(4)ย
Where the owner/applicant seeks to install an ASES in connection
with new construction or renovation of structure(s) constituting the
principal use, the owner/applicant shall have the burden to show that
the intended ASES is appropriately sized, consistent with the definition
of an accessory solar energy system.
(5)ย
The display of advertising is prohibited.
(6)ย
Glare. All ASES shall be placed in such a manner that concentrated
solar radiation or glare does not project onto adjoining properties
or nearby roadways. The owner/applicant has the burden of proving
that any glare will not have significant adverse impact either through
siting or mitigation.
(7)ย
Appropriate safety/warning signage concerning voltage shall
be placed at ground-mounted electrical devices, equipment and structures.
All electrical control devices associated with the ASES shall be locked
to prevent unauthorized access or entry.
(8)ย
Ground-mounted ASES shall not be placed within any legal easement
or right-of-way location, nor be placed within any stormwater conveyance
system or in any manner that would alter or impede stormwater runoff
from collecting in a constructed stormwater conveyance system.
(9)ย
Decommissioning. Each ASES and all solar-related equipment shall
be removed within 12 months of the date when the use has been discontinued
or abandoned by the system owner and/or operator or upon termination
of the useful life of same. The ASES shall be presumed to be discontinued
or abandoned if no electricity is generated by such solar collector
for a period of 12 continuous months.
4.ย
Principal Solar Energy Systems (PSES):
A.ย
A PSES shall be deemed to be a primary use in all zoning districts
where such a use is deemed to be a permitted or conditional use.
C.ย
The PSES layout, design and installation shall conform to applicable
industry standards, such as those of the American National Standards
institute (ANSI), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the American Society
for Testing and Materials (ASTM), Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers (IEEE), Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC),
Electrical Testing Laboratory (ETL) or other similar certifying organizations,
and shall comply with the PA Uniform Construction Code as enforced
by Spring Township, and with all other applicable fire and life safety
requirements. The manufacturer specifications for the key components
of the system shall be submitted as part of the application.
D.ย
All on-site transmission, plumbing lines and all wiring and cabling
shall be placed underground to the extent feasible.
E.ย
The owner of a PSES shall provide Spring Township written confirmation
that the public utility company to which the PSES will be connected
has been informed of the customer's intent to install a grid
connected system and approved of such connection.
F.ย
No portion of the PES shall contain or be used to display advertising.
The manufacturer's name and equipment information or indication
of ownership shall be allowed on any equipment of the PSES provided
they comply with the prevailing sign regulations.
G.ย
Glare:
(1)ย
All PSES shall be placed such that concentrated solar radiation
or glare does not project onto nearby structures or roadways.
(2)ย
The applicant shall have the burden of proving that any glare
produced does not have significant adverse impact on neighboring or
adjacent uses either through siting or mitigation.
H.ย
A noise study shall be performed and included in the application.
The noise study shall be the responsibility of the applicant. Noise
from a PSES shall not exceed 50 dBA, as measured at the property line.
I.ย
No trees or other landscaping otherwise required by the municipal
ordinances or attached as a condition of approval of any plan, application,
or permit may be removed for the installation or operation of a PSES.
J.ย
The PSES owner and/or operator shall maintain contact information
and identify person(s) responsible for the public to contact with
inquiries and complaints throughout the life of the project and provide
this information to Spring Township and all emergency service providers.
This information shall be posted on the site clearly in a noticeable
location. The PSES owner and/or operator shall make all reasonable
efforts to respond to inquiries and complaints.
K.ย
Decommissioning:
(1)ย
The PSES owner is required to notify Spring Township immediately
upon cessation or abandonment of the operation. The PSES shall be
considered to be discontinued or abandoned if no electricity is generated
by such system for a period of 12 consecutive months.
(2)ย
If deemed discontinued or abandoned, the PSES owner shall obtain
permits for the demolition of the operation. The PSES owner shall
have 12 months in which to dismantle and remove the PSES including
all solar related equipment or appurtenances, including but not limited
to buildings, cabling, electrical components, roads, foundations or
other associated facilities from the property. If the owner fails
to dismantle and/or remove the PSES within the established timeframes,
the municipality may complete the decommissioning at the owner's
expense.
L.ย
Prior to the issuance of building and zoning permits, PSES applicants
shall acknowledge in writing that the issuance of said permits shall
not and do not create in the property owner, successors and assigns
in title, or create in the property itself: 1) the right to remain
free of shadows and/or obstructions to solar energy caused by development
of adjoining or other property or the growth of any trees or vegetation
on such property; and 2) the right to prohibit the development on
or growth of any trees or vegetation on such property.
M.ย
Permits Required.
(1)ย
All PSES shall comply with all Spring Township subdivision and
land development requirements.
(2)ย
Installation of PSES shall be in compliance with all applicable
zoning and building permit requirements, codes and regulations.
(3)ย
The PSES owner and/or operator shall repair, maintain and replace
the PSES related solar equipment during the term of the permit in
a manner consistent with industry standards as needed to keep the
PSES in good repair and operating condition and shall secure all necessary
permits for repair and/or replacement of such systems.
5.ย
Ground-Mounted Principal Solar Energy Systems (PSES).
A.ย
Minimum Lot Size. The minimum lot size for PSES shall be in accordance
with the standards of the underlying zoning district.
B.ย
Setbacks. All PSES uses and structures shall comply with the setback
requirements of the underlying zoning district for principal structures,
but under no circumstances shall any facilities have less than a thirty-foot
minimum setback.
C.ย
Height. Ground-mounted PSES shall not exceed a maximum height of
20 feet for all components of the PSES. Systems installed on flat
roofs shall be installed so that the highest point is no greater than
six feet above the height of the roof to which it is attached.
D.ย
Impervious Coverage. The surface area of the arrays of a ground-mounted
PSES, regardless of the mounted angle of any solar panels, shall be
considered impervious calculated in the lot coverage of the lot on
which the PSES is located.
F.ย
In the Agricultural Preservation District (A-1), Agricultural Development
District (A-2), and Rural Resource District (RR), no more than 50%
of the entire area for development shall consist of Class I and Class
II prime agricultural soils.
G.ย
Security. All ground-mounted PSES shall be completely enclosed by
a minimum eight-foot-high fence with a self-locking gate. Clearly
visible warning signs shall be placed at the base of all pad-mounted
transformers and substations and on the fence surrounding the PSES
informing individuals of potential voltage hazards.
H.ย
Lighting. The ground-mounted PSES shall not be artificially lighted
except to the extent required for safety or applicable federal, state
or local authority.
I.ย
Removal. If a ground-mounted PSES is removed, any earth disturbance
resulting from removal must be graded and reseeded.