[Amended 8-12-2008 by Ord. No. 8-12-2008]
Unless the context otherwise requires, the following definitions
shall be used in the interpretation of this chapter:
ABANDONED
The visible or otherwise apparent discontinuance of a nonconforming
use of a building or premises, or the removal of the characteristic
equipment or furnishings used in the performance of a nonconforming
use without its replacement by similar equipment or furnishings, or
the replacement of the nonconforming use or structure.
ACCESS DRIVE
A means, other than a street, which provides vehicular access
from a street or public road to a lot; e.g., a driveway or private
right-of-way.
ACCESSORY RESIDENTIAL USE
A residential dwelling unit which is accessory to the principal use of a lot, including an apartment located above or adjoining a commercial use or a residential dwelling unit above a garage in a residential area. (See also §
135-46.)
ACCESSORY SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM (ASES)
An area of land or other area used for a solar collection
system used to capture solar energy, convert it to electrical energy
or thermal power and supply electrical or thermal power primarily
for on-site use. An accessory solar energy system consists of one
or more freestanding ground- or roof-mounted solar arrays or modules,
or solar related equipment and is intended to primarily reduce on-site
consumption of utility power or fuels.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
ACCESSORY USE OR STRUCTURE
A use or structure on the same lot with, and of a nature
customarily incidental to, the principal use or structure.
ADULT DAY-CARE
A facility providing limited, daytime care for adults, including elderly and handicapped persons. (See also §
135-26.)
AGENT
Any person other than the landowner of a lot who, acting
under specific authorization of the landowner, submits plans, data
and/or applications to the Zoning Officer or other designated Township
official for the purpose of obtaining approval thereof.
AGRIBUSINESS
The sale of agricultural products or commodities, including
but not limited to farm produce, seed, fertilizers and farm machinery.
AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURE
Any farm building or structure used for storing agricultural
equipment or farm produce, housing livestock or poultry, or processing
dairy products. Such buildings shall not be used for residential purposes.
AGRICULTURE
The use of land for agricultural purposes, including farming,
dairying, pasturage, apiculture, horticulture, floriculture, viticulture,
aquaculture, forestry, animal and poultry husbandry and the accessory
uses for packing, treating or storing the produce; provided, however,
that the operation of any such accessory use shall be secondary to
that of the normal agricultural activities.
AIRCRAFT
Any contrivance, except an unpowered hang glider or parachute,
used for the ascent into or flight through the air.
AIRPORT
Any area of land or water which is used or is intended to
be used for the landing and takeoff of aircraft and any appurtenant
areas which are used or are intended to be used for airport buildings
or air navigation facilities or rights-of-way, together with all airport
buildings and facilities thereon. For purposes of this chapter, the
term "airport" shall include facilities designated as heliports and
those facilities which can be used only by rotary wing aircraft.
AIRPORT HAZARD
Any structure or object, natural or man-made, or use of land
which obstructs the airspace required for the flight of aircraft in
landing or taking off at an airport or is otherwise hazardous to the
landing or taking off of aircraft.
AIRPORT HAZARD AREA
Any area of land or water upon which an airport hazard might
be established if not prevented.
ALLEY
A permanent, public serviceway providing a secondary means
of access to lots, not intended for general traffic circulation.
ALTERATION
As applied to a building or structure, a change or rearrangement
in the structural parts or in the exit facilities or an enlargement,
whether by extending on a side or increasing in height, or the moving
from one location or position to another. An "alteration" does not
include maintenance and repair.
AMENDMENT
A change or revision to the text or map of this chapter approved and enacted by the Township Supervisors. (See also §
135-84.)
APPLICANT
Any lessee or his authorized agent who submits plans, data
and/or applications to the Zoning Officer or other designated Township
official for the purpose of obtaining approval thereof.
AREA
The surface included within a set of lines.
A.
AREA, LOTThe area contained within the property lines of individual parcels of land shown on a plan, excluding any area within a street right-of-way but including the area of any easement or future street right-of-way.
B.
AREA, BUILDABLEThat portion of a lot bounded by the required front, side and rear yards.
C.
AREA, BUILDINGThe total area of a lot covered by buildings, excluding uncovered porches, terraces and steps.
D.
AREA, SITEThe total area of a proposed development, regardless of interior lot lines or proposed lots, streets or easements.
AUTOMOTIVE OR MOBILE HOME SALES FACILITY
Any building or land area used for the display and sale of
new or used automobiles, mobile homes or other motor vehicles, including
warranty repair or associated work.
AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP
A building or structure used primarily for making major repairs
to motor vehicles (automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, farm equipment
or machinery and/or snowmobiles), including overhauling, bodywork,
painting, refinishing and upholstering, as well as incidental servicing
and maintenance.
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE STATION
A building or place of business where gasoline or any motor vehicle fuel or oil or other lubricating substance, batteries, tires and other automotive accessories are supplied and dispensed to the motor vehicle trade at retail and where minor repair service may be offered. (See also §
135-31.)
BASEMENT
A.
That portion of a building partly underground but having more
than half of its clear height above the average lot grade. A "basement"
shall be counted as a story for the purposes of height measurement
if the vertical distance between the ceiling and the average level
of the adjoining ground is more than five feet or if it is used for
business or dwelling purposes.
B.
For floodplain management purposes, that area of a building
or structure having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on all
sides.
BED-AND-BREAKFAST ESTABLISHMENT
An establishment, dwelling or part thereof in which individual rooms are offered for transient or temporary lodging purposes by the owner or operator for limited periods of time. Breakfast may also be provided for overnight guests as a part of the lodging fee. (See also §
135-23.)
BOARDING- OR ROOMING HOUSE
A single-family dwelling or part thereof where lodging is provided for a fee by the owner for no more than six additional persons for periods of time exceeding one week, whether or not provision has been made for meals. For the purposes of this chapter, "boarding- or rooming houses" shall not include student housing facilities. (See also §
135-23.)
BORROW PIT
An excavated area where material has been borrowed for use
as fill at another location, not including the excavation or removal
of fill or the grading of a site preparatory to the construction of
a building.
BUFFER YARD
Yard space, either landscaped or planted, provided between
high-intensity activities and residential uses.
BUILDING
Any structure having a roof supported by columns, or enclosed
with exterior walls or firewalls, built, erected, and framed of component
structural parts. Included shall be all manufactured homes and trailers
to be used for human habitation. The word "building" shall include
any part thereof.
[Amended 3-21-2018 by Ord. No. 3-21-18]
A.
BUILDING, PRINCIPALThe main structure on a given lot, designed for the housing, shelter, enclosure, and support of individuals, animals, or property of any kind or in which the principal use of the site is conducted. A land development includes more than two principal buildings on a single lot.
B.
BUILDING, ACCESSORYA detached subordinate building, the use of which is customarily incidental and subordinate to that of the principal building, and which is located on the same lot as that occupied by the principal building. No accessory building shall be allowed absent a permitted principal structure.
C.
BUILDING, ATTACHEDA building which has one or more party walls in common with adjacent buildings.
D.
BUILDING, DETACHEDA building which has no party walls and is surrounded by open space on all sides of the lot.
BUILDING COVERAGE
That percentage of the plot or lot area covered by the principal
and accessory buildings, including covered porches, carports and breezeways,
but excluding open patios, parking or loading areas.
BUILDING HEIGHT
A vertical distance measured from the average elevation of
the proposed finished grade at the front of the building to the highest
point of the roof for flat roofs, to the deckline of mansard roofs
and to the mean height between eaves and ridge for gable, hip or gambrel
roofs, excluding chimneys, spires, towers, tanks and similar projections
which may be attached to a building.
BUILDING LINE OR BUILDING SETBACK LINE
The line established by the required minimum setback from
the street right-of-way for buildings and/or structures. The building
line shall be the point at which the lot width shall be measured.
BUILDING PERMIT
The permit required by this chapter for the construction,
alteration or razing of any structure or for the changing of the grade
of real estate or the placing of fill thereon. The task of issuing
or denying a building permit, and the initial decisionmaking discretion
related thereto, may be delegated by the Board of Supervisors.
CAMP, CABIN or VACATION HOME
A building or group of buildings intended for occupancy only occasionally during the year, including buildings intended as camps, cottages, hunting lodges or cabins, vacation homes and similar facilities. For the purposes of this chapter, a recreational vehicle shall not be considered to be a camp, cabin or vacation home. (See also §
135-27.)
CAMPGROUND
A tract or tracts of ground or portion thereof used for the purpose of providing two or more spaces for recreational vehicles or tents for camping purposes, with or without a fee charged for the leasing, renting or occupancy of such space. Such facility may also include a recreational vehicle park. (See also §
135-28.)
CAR WASH
Any building or premises used for washing automobiles or
other motor vehicles.
CARPORT
A roofed structure providing space for the parking or storage
of motor vehicles and enclosed on not more than three sides.
CARTWAY
The surface of a street or alley available for vehicular
traffic or the area between curbs.
CELLAR
A portion of a building partly underground, having half or
more than half of its clear height below grade. A cellar shall not
be considered in determining the permissible number of stories.
CERTIFICATE OF NONCONFORMANCE
A certificate issued by the Zoning Officer which acknowledges
the existence of a nonconforming use, structure or lot as of the effective
date of this chapter, thereby authorizing its right to continue until
it is eliminated or abandoned.
CHANGE OF USE
An alteration of a building or a change of use existing within
a building or on a lot to a new use which imposes other provisions
of this chapter.
CLEAR SIGHT TRIANGLE
An area of unobstructed vision at street or driveway intersections
defined by lines of sight between points at a given distance from
the intersection of the street center lines.
CLUB, LODGE OR FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION
An organization catering exclusively to members and their
guests in premises or buildings for social, recreational or administrative
purposes, not including residential uses. Such organizations are not
conducted for profit but may include a dining room operated for the
benefit of the organization. Clubs shall include but not be limited
to service organizations, hunting or sportsmen's clubs and fraternal
organizations, as well as social, athletic or similar groups.
COMMERCIAL WIND ENERGY FACILITY
A commercial electric generating facility, whose main purpose
is to supply electricity to off-site customer(s), consisting of one
or more commercial WECS, and other accessory structures and buildings,
including substations, meteorological towers, electrical infrastructure,
transmission lines and other appurtenant structures and facilities.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
COMMUNICATIONS ANTENNA
Any device used for the transmission or reception of radio,
television, wireless telephone, pager, commercial mobile radio service
or any other wireless communications signals, including without limitation
omnidirectional or whip antennas and directional or panel antenna,
owned or operated by any person or entity licensed by the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) to operate such device. This definition
shall not include private-residence-mounted satellite dishes or television
antennas or amateur radio equipment, including without limitation
ham or citizen band radio antennas.
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT BUILDING
An unmanned building or cabinet containing communications
equipment required for the operation of communications antennas and
covering an area on the ground not greater than 350 square feet.
COMMUNICATIONS TOWER
A structure other than a building, such as a monopole, self-support
or guyed tower, designed and used to support communications antennas.
COMPLETELY DRY SPACE
A space which will remain totally dry during flooding; the
structure is designed and constructed to prevent the passage of water
and water vapor.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
The complete plan for the development of Scott Township as
adopted by the Township Supervisors.
CONDOMINIUM
A building or group of buildings in which units are owned
individually, and the structure, common areas and facilities are owned
by all the owners on a proportional, undivided basis.
CONVERSION APARTMENT
A dwelling or other building converted for residential occupancy
by more than one family.
COUNTY
Columbia County, Pennsylvania.
CULTURAL FACILITIES
Art galleries, auditoriums, libraries, museums, community
centers, adult education centers or other similar facilities open
to the public or connected with a permitted educational, philanthropic
or religious use.
DAY-CARE CENTER
A private facility enrolling more than 11 young children, where tuition, fees or other forms of compensation for the care of the children is charged and which is licensed, inspected and approved to operate as a child day-care center by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. (See also §
135-26.)
DENSITY
The number of families, individuals, dwelling units or housing
structures permitted to be constructed or situated on a specific unit
of land.
DEVELOPMENT
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 mobile homes or manufactured homes; streets and other
paving; utilities; filling, grading, excavation, mining, dredging
or drilling operations; and the subdivision of land.
DISTRICT
A zoning district as laid out on the Zoning Map, along with
the regulations pertaining thereto.
DOCK
A temporary structure extending into a stream or other body
of water for the purpose of securing a boat(s).
DRIVEWAY
A minor vehicular right-of-way providing access between a
street and a parking area or garage within a lot or property.
DWELLING
A.
A building, structure or shelter designed for or occupied exclusively
as the residence or sleeping place of one or more persons.
(1)
DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHEDA dwelling containing only one dwelling unit from ground to roof, having independent outside access and open space on all sides, except for a mobile home as defined below. (See "mobile home.")
(2)
DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY ATTACHEDA dwelling containing only one dwelling unit from ground to roof, having independent outside access and a portion of one or two walls in common with an adjoining dwelling(s); i.e., a townhouse or garden apartment. For the purposes of this chapter, a single-family attached dwelling structure shall contain three or more dwelling units.
(3)
DWELLING, TWO-FAMILY ATTACHEDAn attached or semiattached building containing two independent dwelling units which are entirely separated by vertical walls or horizontal floors, unpierced except for access to the outside or a common basement or cellar; i.e., a duplex.
(4)
DWELLING, MULTIFAMILYA dwelling structure containing three or more dwelling units without independent outside access; i.e., an apartment building or condominium.
B.
For the purposes of this chapter, a multifamily housing development
shall consist of more than one multifamily dwelling structure or more
than one single-family attached dwelling structure, or a combination
thereof. A single-family attached housing development shall consist
of more than one single-family attached dwelling structure.
DWELLING UNIT
One or more rooms in a dwelling structure designed for the
use by one or more individuals living together as a single housekeeping
unit, with cooking, living, sanitary and sleeping facilities. Recreational
vehicles and facilities for transient lodging shall not be considered
as dwelling units for the purposes of this chapter.
ENCLOSED USE
A use which is located entirely within a structure.
ENTERTAINMENT FACILITY, PUBLIC
An indoor facility operated as a business for profit, open to the public, for the purpose of providing entertainment, including but not limited to bowling alleys, roller skating rinks, motion-picture theaters, health clubs and similar types of establishments, but excluding adult entertainment facilities. (See also §
135-32.)
ESSENTIALLY DRY SPACE
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.
FAMILY
One or more persons occupying a single dwelling unit and
living as a single household unit, all of whom are related by blood,
marriage or adoption, to include stepchildren and stepparents. (See
also "group family household.")
[Amended 9-14-2010 by Ord. No. 9-14-2010]
FAMILY DAY-CARE HOME
A family residence where care is provided for no more than
six children by an occupant of the home and which is registered by
the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare to provide such care.
FARM
A parcel of land which is used for agricultural purposes
or activities.
FENCE
Any combination of materials creating an enclosure or barrier
to prevent intrusion from outside or straying from within.
FLICKER
A repeating cycle or changing light intensity.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
FLOOD
A temporary inundation of normally dry land areas.
FLOOD, ONE-HUNDRED-YEAR
A flood that on the average is likely to occur once every
100 years (i.e., that has a one-percent chance of occurring each year,
although the flood may occur in any year).
FLOOD-FRINGE
That portion of the one-hundred-year floodplain outside of
the floodway, excluding areas shown as approximate one-hundred-year
flood zones on the Township's Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps.
FLOODPLAIN
(See § 135-61B for "identified floodplain area.")
A.
A relatively flat or low land area adjoining a river, stream
or other watercourse which is subject to partial or complete inundation.
B.
An area subject to the unusual and rapid accumulation of runoff
of surface waters from any source.
FLOODPROOFING
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 or their contents. (See § 135-61
for floodproofing techniques.)
FLOODWAY
The designated area of a floodplain required to carry and
discharge the floodwaters of a one-hundred-year flood.
FLOOR AREA
The area of a structure covered by floors.
FLOOR AREA RATIO
The gross floor area of all buildings on a lot divided by
the lot area.
FLOOR AREA, GROSS
The sum of the gross horizontal areas of all of the floors
of a building measured from the exterior face of exterior walls or
from the center line of a wall separating two buildings but not including
interior parking spaces for motor vehicles or basement or cellar floor
areas where this area is not used for business or dwelling purposes,
but including the area of roofed porches and terraces.
FLOOR AREA, HABITABLE
Any floor area within a dwelling unit which is usable for
living purposes, including area for working, sleeping, eating, cooking
and recreation, or a combination thereof. Stairways, hallways and
floor area used only for storage purposes, such as closet, attic or
unimproved basement space, shall not be considered habitable floor
area, nor shall any space where the floor-to-ceiling height is less
than five feet.
FREEBOARD
A factor of safety usually expressed in feet above a flood
level for purposes of floodplain management. Freeboard tends to compensate
for the many unknown factors that could contribute to flood heights
greater than the height calculated for a selected size flood and floodway
conditions, such as wave action, bridge openings and the hydrological
effect of urbanization of the watershed.
GARAGE
A building or structure used for the parking and storage
of vehicles.
GARAGE, PRIVATE
An accessory building or an accessory portion of a principal
building designed or used for the parking or storage of motor vehicles,
which is not a commercial enterprise available to the general public;
provided, however, that no more than one space therein may be leased
to a nonresident of the premises.
GARAGE, PUBLIC
A building or group of buildings used primarily for the parking
or storage of motor vehicles, available to the general public for
compensation. (See also "automotive repair shop.")
GARDEN APARTMENT
A single-family attached dwelling which is comprised of one
floor above basement grade.
GENERAL FLOODPLAIN
That portion of the floodplain area for which no specific
flood profiles exist and which is designated as the approximated one-hundred-year
floodplain area on the Township's Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps.
GLARE
The effect produced by light with an intensity sufficient
to cause annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual performance and
visibility.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
GRADE
The degree of rise or descent of a sloping surface.
GRADE, FINISHED
The final elevation of the ground surface after development.
GRADE, STREET
The elevation of the center line of an existing or proposed
street; the percentage of slope.
GROUND CLEARANCE
The minimum distance between the ground and any part of the
wind turbine blade, as measured from the lowest point of the arc of
the blades.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
GROUP DAY-CARE HOME
A residence or independent facility where day care is provided
for between seven and 11 children by at least two caregivers, and
which is licensed and inspected by the Pennsylvania Department of
Welfare to provide such care.
GROUP FAMILY HOUSEHOLD
A group of individuals not related by blood, marriage, adoption
or guardianship living together in one dwelling unit as a single housekeeping
unit under a common housekeeping plan based on an intentionally structured
relationship providing organization and stability.
GROUP HOME; GROUP-CARE FACILITY
A facility or dwelling unit housing persons unrelated by blood or marriage, which operates as a group family household, including but not limited to sobriety houses, recovery homes, homes for orphans, foster children, the elderly, battered children and women, and specialized treatment facilities providing less than primary health care, not including student housing facilities. (See also §
135-25.)
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Any substance or mixture of substances having properties
capable of producing adverse effects on the health or safety of a
human being.
HEIGHT OF COMMUNICATIONS TOWER
The vertical distance measured from the ground level to the
highest point on a communications tower, including antennas mounted
on the tower.
HISTORIC 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 with historic preservation programs which have been approved
by the Secretary of Interior; or
D.
Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places
in communities with historic preservation programs that have been
certified either:
(1)
By an approved state program as determined by the Secretary
of the Interior; or
(2)
Directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without
approved programs.
HOME OCCUPATION
An accessory use or occupation operated for gain or profit, conducted entirely within a dwelling or in a structure accessory to the dwelling and carried on by the inhabitants thereof, which use is clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling for residential purposes and does not change the character thereof. (See §
135-45.)
HORTICULTURE
The growing of fruits, vegetables, flowers, ornamental plants,
shrubs or trees for profit.
HOTEL
A building, structure or facility offering transient lodging
accommodations to the general public and where additional services
may be provided, such as restaurants, meeting rooms and recreational
facilities.
IDENTIFIED FLOODPLAIN AREA
The floodplain area specifically identified in this chapter
as being inundated by the one-hundred-year flood. (See § 135-61B.)
INDUSTRIAL PARK
A tract of land which has been planned, developed and is
operated as an integrated facility for a number of individual industrial
uses with special attention to circulation, parking, utility needs,
aesthetics and compatibility.
INTERCHANGE
A grade-separated system of access to and from a major highway;
i.e., Interstate 80.
JUNK
Any discarded article or material not ordinarily disposed
of as rubbish, garbage or refuse, and including but not limited to
scrap metal, scrapped, abandoned or junked automobiles, machinery,
equipment, paper, rags, glass containers and other salvageable materials.
For the purposes of this chapter, the term "junk" shall not include
hazardous wastes or materials, industrial residual wastes or municipal
wastes as defined in the Pennsylvania Solid Waste Management Act.
JUNKED OR ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE
Any motor vehicle which does not bear a current license,
registration or inspection or which is not in runable condition and
is stored outside of an enclosed building or is not covered by an
opaque tarp.
JUNKYARD
Any outdoor establishment, place of business or use of land which is maintained, used or operated for storing, keeping, buying or selling junk or junked or abandoned motor vehicles. For the purposes of this chapter, such facility may also be referred to as an "auto salvage operation" or "scrap processing facility." (See also §
135-39.)
KENNEL
An establishment where more than three dogs or domesticated animals more than six months old are housed, groomed, bred, boarded, trained or sold. House pets in a private home are excluded. (See also §
135-34.)
LAND DEVELOPMENT
Any of the following activities:
A.
The improvement of one lot or two or more contiguous lots, tracts
or parcels of land for any purpose involving:
(1)
A group of two or more residential or nonresidential buildings,
whether proposed initially or cumulatively, or a single nonresidential
building on a lot or lots regardless of the number of occupants or
tenure; or
(2)
The division or allocation of land or space, whether initially
or cumulatively, between or among two or more existing or prospective
occupants by means of or for the purpose of streets, common areas,
leaseholds, condominiums, building groups or other features.
C.
Development in accordance with Section 503(1.1) of the Pennsylvania
Municipalities Planning Code [53 P.S. § 10503(1.1)].
D.
The following shall be excluded from the definition of land
development in Scott Township:
[Added 3-21-2018 by Ord.
No. 3-21-18]
(1)
The conversion of an existing single-family detached dwelling
or double dwelling into not more than three residential units, unless
such units are intended to be a condominium; or
(2)
The addition of an accessory building with less than 1,000 square
feet of floor area; or
(3)
The addition of a new attached building or structure with less
than 1,000 square feet of floor area to an existing building, where
the use of the new attached building or structure is incidental and
subordinate to the existing building; or
(4)
The addition or conversion of buildings or rides within the
confines of an enterprise which would be considered an amusement park.
For purposes of this subsection, an amusement park is defined as a
tract or area used principally as a location for permanent amusement
structures or rides. This exclusion shall not apply to newly acquired
acreage by an amusement park until proper authorities have approved
plans for expanded area.
E.
Unless otherwise defined as such, land development shall not
be interpreted to include the reuse of existing structures not involving
or requiring development supporting improvements to the site.
[Added 3-21-2018 by Ord.
No. 3-21-18]
LANDOWNER
The legal or beneficial owner(s) of land, including the holder
of an option or contract to purchase (whether or not such option is
subject to any condition), a lessee, if he is authorized under the
lease to exercise the right of the landowner, or other person having
a proprietary interest in the land.
LANDSCAPING
Grass and other plantings such as trees, shrubs and/or bushes.
LAUNDROMAT
A business premises equipped with individual clothes washing
and drying machines for the use of retail customers. For the purposes
of this chapter, such facilities shall not include laundry facilities
provided as an accessory use, such as those provided for an apartment
building.
LIGHT INDUSTRIAL OPERATION
A manufacturing or processing activity that produces a negligible amount of noise, smoke, odor, dust, vibration or glare as a result of the activity. (See also §
135-35.)
LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY, INTENSIVE RAISING OF
[Added 3-18-2015 by Ord.
No. 3-18-15B]
A.
This term shall mean a use involving the raising of livestock
and/or poultry involving a total average of three or more "animal
equivalent units" (see definition below) of live weight per acre of
livestock or poultry.
B.
An animal equivalent unit (AEU) is 1,000 pounds live weight
of livestock, aquatic or poultry animals, regardless of the actual
number of individual animals comprising the unit. This weight is calculated
on an annualized basis. These units shall be calculated as provided
under the State Nutrient Management Act regulations and accompanying
standards prepared by the Penn State University Cooperative Extension
Service.
C.
These zoning-intensity provisions shall be based upon the total
acreage of one or more adjacent lots (which may be separated by a
road) under common ownership, operation or lease, and are not based
upon the acreage that is available for disposal of wastes.
LOADING BERTH
A space accessible from a street or alley in a building or
on a lot for the temporary use of vehicles while loading or unloading
merchandise or materials.
LOT
A designated parcel, tract or area of land established by
a plat or otherwise as permitted by law and to be used, developed
or built upon as a unit.
B.
LOT DEPTHThe mean horizontal distance from the street line of a lot to its opposite rear lot line measured in the general direction of the side lot lines.
C.
LOT WIDTHThe distance measured between the side lot lines at the required building setback line; in a case where there is only one side lot line, between such lot line and the opposite lot line.
D.
LOT, CORNERA lot with two adjacent sides abutting on streets. A lot abutting on a curved street shall be considered a "corner lot" if the tangents to the curve at the points of intersection of the side lot lines with the street line intersect at an interior angle of less than 135°.
F.
LOT, REVERSE FRONTAGEA lot extending between and having frontage on an arterial or collector street and a local street, with vehicular access solely from the latter.
LOT LINES
The property lines bounding the lot.
A.
LOT LINE, FRONTThe line separating the lot from a street right-of-way or, where the lot has no road frontage, the front line of the lot as described in the property deed.
B.
LOT LINE, REARThe lot line opposite and most distant from the front lot line.
LOT OF RECORD
A lot which individually or as a part of a subdivision has
been recorded in the office of the Recorder of Deeds of Columbia County,
Pennsylvania.
LOWEST FLOOR
The lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area of a building
or structure (including basement or cellar). An unfinished or flood-resistant
enclosure, usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access
or storage in an area other than a basement or cellar area, is not
considered "lowest floor" of a building, provided that such space
is not designed and built so that the structure is in violation of
the applicable nonelevation design requirements of this chapter and
the National Flood Insurance Program.
MANUFACTURED HOME
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.
MANUFACTURED HOME PARK
A parcel of land under single ownership which has been planned
and improved for the placement of two or more manufactured homes for
nontransient use.
MANUFACTURING
The act of producing, preparing or assembling finished products
or goods from raw materials or component parts through the repetitious
use of an established or set process.
MARKET VALUE
The fair market price of a structure or property as determined
by an appraiser or insurance adjuster; the price at which both buyer
and seller are willing to do business.
METEOROLOGICAL TOWER
A tower used for the measurement of wind speed.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
MINERAL EXTRACTION OPERATION
Quarrying or commercial extraction of rock, sand, gravel, earth, clay or other similar materials, including facilities for the batching or mixing of extracted materials, not including the extraction of oil or gas reserves. (See also §
135-38.)
MINOR REPAIR
The replacement of existing work with equivalent materials
for the purpose of 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 any minor
repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement of or relocation
of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas,
soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electrical wiring or mechanical
or other work affecting public health or general safety.
MOBILE HOME
A transportable, single-family dwelling intended for permanent occupancy, contained in one unit or in two units designed to be joined into one integral unit, capable of again being separated for repeated towing, which arrives at a site complete and ready for occupancy except for minor and incidental unpacking and assembly operations, and is constructed so that it may be used without a permanent foundation. For floodplain management purposes, the term shall also include park trailers, travel trailers, recreational vehicles and other similar types of manufactured homes placed on a site for a period of time exceeding 180 consecutive days. (See also §
135-18 and the definition of "mobile home, permanent.")
MOBILE HOME LOT
A parcel of land in a mobile home park, improved with the
necessary utility connections and other appurtenances necessary for
the erection thereon of a single mobile home.
MOBILE HOME PAD OR STAND
That part of an individual mobile home lot which has been
reserved for the placement of a mobile home and appurtenant structures
and connections.
MOBILE HOME PARK
A parcel or contiguous parcels of land which has been so designated and improved that it contains two or more mobile home lots for the placement thereon of mobile homes. For floodplain management purposes, the term shall also include facilities for the placement of two or more park trailers, travel trailers, recreational vehicles and other similar types of manufactured housing for a period of time exceeding 180 consecutive days. (See also §
135-22.)
MOBILE HOME, PERMANENT
For the purposes of this chapter, an independent mobile home
with its wheels, tow bar or other means of propulsion removed, which
is firmly affixed to a permanent foundation and which is located on
a lot in accordance with the controls, regulations and standards set
forth for the district in which the unit is to be located.
MODULAR HOUSING
Housing units designed and manufactured in two or more standard
sections, which are trucked or shipped to a site and joined into one
integral part on the site. For the purposes of this chapter, such
housing must be placed upon a permanent foundation and may not be
separated for further towing.
MOTEL
A building or structure arranged or used for sheltering,
sleeping and/or feeding of transient or overnight guests, where each
unit has independent outside access.
MUNICIPAL WASTE
Waste material originating from residential, municipal, commercial
or institutional establishments, including sludges from water supply
treatment plants, wastewater treatment plants and air pollution control
facilities not meeting the definition of residual or hazardous waste
in the Solid Waste Management Act. The term does not include source-separated recyclable
materials.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES
Retail stores, shops or establishments designed to provide service to a limited neighborhood area, including mini markets, general stores, antique or gift shops, equipment repair facilities, personal service or similar types of facilities. (See also §
135-30.)
NEW CONSTRUCTION
A.
The construction, reconstruction, renovation, repair, extension,
expansion, alteration, location or relocation of a building (including
mobile and manufactured homes), structure and/or improvements (such
as streets, utilities, etc.).
B.
For floodplain management purposes, structures for which the
start of construction commenced on or after September 2, 1981, and
which includes any subsequent improvements thereto.
NONCOMMERCIAL WINDMILL
A wind energy conversion system that is incidental and subordinate
to another use on the same parcel and supplies electrical power solely
for on-site use, which is intended to primarily reduce consumption
of utility power at that location and not for resale.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
NONCONFORMING LOT
A lot which does not conform to the minimum width, depth
or other dimensional requirements as specified in Appendix D for the district in which it is located, including those lots which existed prior to the enactment of this chapter. (See §
135-80 for applicable provisions.)
NONCONFORMING STRUCTURE
A structure or part of a structure not designed or built to comply with the use or extent of use provisions of this chapter, including those structures which lawfully existed prior to the enactment of this chapter or amendment. Such nonconforming structures include but shall not be limited to nonconforming signs. (See §
135-79 for applicable provisions.)
NONCONFORMING USE
A use of a building or land which does not comply with the
applicable current use regulations as set forth in Appendix D to this chapter, including those uses which lawfully existed prior to the enactment of this chapter or amendments hereto. (See §
135-79 for applicable provisions.)
NONPARTICIPATING LANDOWNERS
Any landowner except those on whose property all or a portion
of a wind energy facility is located pursuant to an agreement with
the facility owner or operator.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
NURSING HOME
A licensed establishment which provides full-time convalescent
or chronic nursing and/or medical care for individuals. Such facilities
shall not provide surgical, obstetrical or other services generally
provided by a hospital.
OBSTRUCTION
Any wall, dam, wharf, embankment, levee, dike, pile, abutment,
projection, excavation, channel rectification, culvert, building,
wire, fence, stockpile, refuse, fill, structure or other matter in,
along, across or projecting into any channel, watercourse or regulatory
flood hazard area which may impede, retard or change the direction
of water, either in itself or by catching or collecting debris carried
downstream to the damage of life or property.
OCCUPANCY PERMIT
A permit issued by the officer or entity appointed or designated by the Board of Supervisors for such purpose, stating that all work indicated on a building permit has been satisfactorily completed or, in cases not involving construction, a proposed new use is in conformity with this chapter and the building or lot may be occupied. (See §
135-88.)
OCCUPIED BUILDING
A residence, school, hospital, church, public library, commercial
building or other building used for public gathering that is in use
when the permit application is submitted.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
ONE-HUNDRED-YEAR FLOOD
A flood that, on the average, is likely to occur once every
100 years (i.e., that has one-percent chance of occurring each year,
although the flood may occur in any year).
OPEN SPACE
Space not occupied by a structure, open to the sky and on
the same lot with the building or structure.
A.
OPEN SPACE, PUBLICAny land area set aside, dedicated, designated or reserved for public enjoyment.
B.
OPEN SPACE, COMMONLand within or related to a development not individually owned or dedicated for public use, which is designed and intended for the common use and enjoyment of the residents of the development and which may include complementary structures and improvements as are necessary and appropriate.
OPERATOR
The entity responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance
of the wind energy facility.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
PARK or PLAYGROUND
A public, semipublic or private park or park-type facility which provides outdoor recreational enjoyment and activity, either for free or on a fee basis. Such facilities may include tennis or basketball courts, baseball or other athletic fields, swimming, hiking and picnic areas and playgrounds and may also include buildings and accessory structures. Activities may be organized to include day camps, leagues or other groups or may be strictly independent. (See §
135-29 and the definition of "recreation facility.")
PARKING SPACE
An off-street area on a lot available for the parking of one motor vehicle and having direct, usable access to a street or road. A parking space may include covered garage space or uncovered lot space located off of the public right-of-way. (See also Article
IX.)
PARTICIPATING LANDOWNER
A landowner upon whose property all or a portion of a wind
energy facility is located pursuant to an agreement with the facility
owner or operator.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
PARTY WALL
A wall on an interior lot line or a wall adapted for joint
service between two buildings.
PERMITTED USE
A use allowed in a zoning district, subject to the applicable
district regulations, and approved by the Zoning Officer.
PERSON
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.
PERSONAL CARE HOME
A licensed facility providing limited care services, including
meals and less than full-time nursing care, for individuals.
PERSONAL SERVICE BUSINESSES
Includes but need not be limited to barbershops, beauty parlors,
self-service laundry and dry-cleaning establishments, tailor and dressmaking
shops or other establishments of a related nature.
PLANNING COMMISSION
The Planning Commission of Scott Township, Columbia County,
Pennsylvania; appointed by the Township Supervisors to serve in an
advisory capacity.
PRECUT HOUSING
Building materials designed and manufactured as a complete
package intended to be assembled on site into a residential dwelling
unit(s). For the purposes of this chapter, such housing must be placed
on a permanent foundation.
PRINCIPAL SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM (PSES)
An area of land or other area used for a solar collection
system principally used to capture solar energy, convert it to electrical
energy or thermal power and supply electrical or thermal power primarily
for off-site use. Principal solar energy systems consist of one or
more freestanding ground- or roof-mounted solar collector devices,
solar related equipment and other accessory structures and buildings,
including light reflectors, concentrators, and heat exchangers, substations,
electrical infrastructure, transmission lines and other appurtenant
structures.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE
The office of a member of a recognized profession. A professional
office shall be considered a home occupation when conducted from a
residence by a member of the resident family and when the office is
only secondary to the residential use of the building.
PUBLIC HEARING
A formal meeting held pursuant to public notice by the Township
Supervisors, Township Planning Commission or Township Zoning Hearing
Board intended to inform and obtain public comment prior to taking
action in accordance with this chapter.
PUBLIC MEETING
A forum held pursuant to notice under the Act of July 3,
1978 (P.L. 388, No. 84), as amended, known as the "Sunshine Act."
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice published once each week for two successive weeks
in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality. Such notice
shall state the time and place of the hearing and the particular nature
of the matter to be considered at the hearing. The first publication
shall not be more than 30 days and the second publication shall not
be less than seven days from the date of the hearing.
PUBLIC UTILITY SERVICES
The erection, construction, alteration or maintenance, by
public utilities or municipal or other governmental agencies, of underground
or overhead gas, electrical, steam, water or sewer transmission or
distribution systems, collection, communication, supply or disposal
systems and their essential buildings, excluding communications towers
and communications antennas as defined herein.
PUBLIC UTILITY TRANSMISSION TOWER
A structure owned and operated by a public utility electric
company regulated by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, designed
and used to support overhead electricity transmission lines.
RECREATION FACILITY
An outdoor commercial, public or semipublic or private facility intended to provide recreational enjoyment to or for its users; i.e., a golf course, driving range, miniature golf course, sportsmen's club or similar facility. (See also §
135-29 and the definition of "park or playground.")
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
A.
A portable or mobile vehicle used for temporary living or sleeping
accommodation without a permanent foundation. Recreational vehicles
shall include travel trailers, house trailers, truck campers, motor
homes and other similar types of vehicles used for recreational, camping
or travel purposes. Such vehicles are permitted to be used only in
campground areas in the municipality or on private independent parcels.
B.
For floodplain management purposes, a vehicle which is:
(1)
Built on a single chassis;
(2)
Not more than 400 square feet, measured at the largest horizontal
projections;
(3)
Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light-duty
truck;
(4)
Not designed for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary
living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or seasonal use.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK
Any site upon which two or more recreational vehicles are
or are intended to be located. (See also "campground.")
REGULATORY FLOOD
The flood that has been selected to serve as the basis upon
which the floodplain management provisions of this chapter have been
based; the one-hundred-year flood.
REPETITIVE LOSS
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 damage occurred.
RIDING ACADEMY
Any establishment where horses are kept for riding, jumping
or showing for compensation or incidental to the operation of any
club, association or similar group.
ROADSIDE STAND
A temporary booth, stand or shelter located along a roadway (outside of the road right-of-way) from which products are offered for sale to the general public. (See also §
135-42.)
ROTOR
That portion of the wind turbine, i.e., blades and associated
hub and shaft, which is intended to be moved or activated by the wind.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
SANITARY OR MUNICIPAL WASTE LANDFILL
A lot or part thereof used for the disposal of garbage, refuse,
municipal waste or other discarded materials, which is licensed and
operated in accordance with all applicable requirements of the Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection, including the rules and regulations
of the Pennsylvania Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste
Reduction Act (Act 101 of 1988, or as may hereafter be amended). The term does not include any facility that is used exclusively for disposal of construction/demolition waste or sludge from sewage treatment plants or water supply treatment plants. (See also §
135-40.)
SCHOOL
Any establishment or facility or part thereof which is designed,
constructed or used for public or private education or instruction
in any branch of knowledge.
SCREEN PLANTING
The provision of a barrier to visibility, glare and noise between adjacent properties made of plant or vegetative materials, such as trees or shrubs, which will be of such species that will be of sufficient height to produce the desired visual screen. Such plantings shall however adhere to the requirements of §
135-54C and shall be broken at points of vehicular or pedestrian access or utility easements.
SEWAGE FACILITY
Any sewer, sewage system, sewage treatment plant or parts
thereof designed, intended or constructed for the collection, treatment
or disposal of liquid wastes, including industrial wastes.
A.
SEWAGE FACILITY, PUBLIC OR OFF-LOTAny approved system or part thereof in which sanitary sewage is collected from buildings and piped by means of a sewerage system to a sanitary sewage treatment plant. Such a system must be designed in accordance with Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection standards and be permitted by the Bureau of Water Quality of the Department of Environmental Protection. These systems shall include municipal treatment facilities as well as package treatment plants installed by private developers.
B.
SEWAGE FACILITY, ON-LOTAny approved system or part thereof designed to serve a single dwelling or building, in which sewage is collected in a septic tank, holding tank or similar container located on the same lot and is untreated except for bacterial action occurring within such tank and is disposed of either through a drain field connected to the tank or by hauling to a sewage treatment plant.
SHADOW FLICKER
Alternating changes in light intensity caused by a moving
wind rotor blade casting shadows on the ground or stationary objects.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
SHOPPING CENTER
A group of commercial establishments planned, developed,
owned and managed as a unit and related in location, size and type
of shops to the trade area that the unit serves; it provides on-site
parking in definite relationship to the types and sizes of stores.
This definition shall also include the term "shopping mall" for the
purposes of this chapter.
SHORT-TERM RENTAL
A dwelling unit that is rented, licensed and/or leased, in
whole or in part, for a transient use in exchange for rent, compensation
or remuneration of any kind. This definition applies to all types
of dwelling units rented, licensed and/or leased for a transient use
under this chapter, unless excluded herein, including (but not limited
to) single-family detached, twin dwelling units, townhouses or apartments,
whether or not primarily used as permanent residences or seasonal
or vacation homes. However, excluding mobile homes.
[Added 3-20-2024 by Ord. No. 3-20-24A]
SIGN
Any device, structure or object for visual communication that is used for the purpose of bringing the subject thereof to the attention of others, but not including any flag, badge or insignia of any public, semipublic, civic, charitable, fraternal or religious group. (See Article
VIII for definitions of various types of signs.)
SIGN AREA
The entire face of a sign, including the advertising surface
and any framing, trim or molding, but not including the supporting
structure.
SOLAR ARRAY
A grouping of multiple solar modules with the purpose of
harvesting solar energy.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
SOLAR CELL
The smallest basic solar electric device which generates
electricity when exposed to light.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
SOLAR EASEMENT
A right, expressed as an easement, restriction, covenant,
or condition contained in any deed, contract, or other written instrument
executed by or on behalf of any landowner for the purpose of assuring
adequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
SOLAR ENERGY
Radiant energy (direct, diffuse and/or reflective) received
from the sun.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
SOLAR MODULE
A grouping of solar cells with the purpose of harvesting
solar energy.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
SOLAR PANEL
That part or portion of a solar energy system containing
one or more receptive cells or modules, the purpose of which is to
convert solar energy for use in space heating or cooling, for water
heating and/or for electricity.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
SOLAR RELATED EQUIPMENT
Items, including a solar photovoltaic cell, module, panel,
or array, or solar hot air or water collector device panels, lines,
pumps, batteries, mounting brackets, framing and possibly foundations
or other structures used for or intended to be used for collection
of solar energy.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019A]
SOLID WASTE
Any waste, including but not limited to municipal, residual
or hazardous wastes, including solid, liquid, semisolid or contained
gaseous materials. (See also "municipal waste.")
SPECIAL EXCEPTION
A use permitted in a certain zoning district as provided for in Article
IV, which must be approved by the Zoning Hearing Board as set forth in §
135-82D of this chapter. Special exceptions may not be granted for uses other than those expressly listed in Appendix D.
SPECIAL PERMIT
A special approval needed for specific types of development
being proposed to be located in any portion of the designated floodplain.
(See § 135-66 for a listing of the activities requiring
special permits and details for submission of applications for such
activities.)
STABLE
A building, whether public or private, in which one or more
horses are boarded, whether or not for compensation, hire or sale.
STORAGE
A place or space for storing goods, articles of personal
property, materials, etc.
A.
STORAGE, ON-LOTThe storage of man-made materials, recreational vehicles, campers, boats, antique cars or other similar types of vehicles or equipment on a lot occupied by the owner of the material or personal property, whether or not the item(s) is stored in a completely or partially enclosed building or stored outside of a building.
B.
STORAGE, OFF-LOTStorage of materials, vehicles or other personal property on a lot other than that occupied by the unit's owner, whether or not the item is stored in a completely or partially enclosed building or stored outside of a building.
C.
STORAGE, OUTDOOR/UNENCLOSEDStorage, as an accessory use (associated with a permitted, principal commercial or industrial use), of goods, materials or merchandise outside of a fully enclosed building or structure. (See also §
135-58.)
STORY
That portion of a building included between the surface of
any floor and the surface of the floor or ceiling next above it.
STORY, HALF
A story under a gable, hip or gambrel roof, the wall plates
of which on at least two opposite exterior walls are not more than
two feet above the floor of such story.
STREET
Any thoroughfare, whether public or private, located in whole
or in part within Scott Township, which provides access to abutting
properties. The word "road" may be used interchangeably with the word
"street."
STREET LINE
The dividing line between the street right-of-way and the
lot.
STRUCTURE
Anything built, constructed or erected which requires location
on the ground or attachment to something located on the ground, including
but not limited to buildings, sheds, manufactured homes, and other
similar items. This term includes any man-made object having an ascertainable
stationary location on or in land or water whether or not affixed
to land.
STUDENT
A person who is registered to be enrolled or who is enrolled
for a class or classes at Bloomsburg University or any other educational
institution, other than a child enrolled in a public or private primary
or secondary school, including persons who are on a semester, summer
or other break from such studies.
[Added 9-14-2010 by Ord.
No. 9-14-2010]
STUDENT HOUSING FACILITY
A building which contains one or more dwelling units occupied
by two or more unrelated individuals who are students, including dormitories
and fraternity houses. Persons shall not be deemed to be related if
they are not related to each other by adoption or marriage or are
not the great-grandparent, great-grandchild, grandparent, grandchild,
parent, child, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, great-uncle,
great-aunt, great-nephew or great-niece of each other.
[Amended 9-14-2010 by Ord. No. 9-14-2010]
SUBDIVISION
The division or redivision of a lot, tract or parcel of land
by any means into two or more lots, tracts or 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.
SUBSTANTIAL ADDITIONS TO MANUFACTURED HOME PARKS
Any repair, reconstruction or improvement of an existing
manufactured home park or manufactured home subdivision, where such
repair, reconstruction or improvement of the streets, utilities and
pads will equal or exceed 50% of the value of the streets, utilities
and pads before the repair, reconstruction or improvement is started.
SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE
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
the damage occurred.
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT
Any repair, reconstruction or improvement of a structure,
the cost of which equals or exceeds 50% of the market value of the
structure either before the improvement or repair or, if the structure
has been damaged and is being restored, before the damage occurred.
For the purposes of this definition, "substantial improvement" is
considered to occur when the first alteration of any wall, ceiling,
floor or other structural part of the building commences, whether
or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the structure.
The term does not include either any project for improvement of a
structure to comply with existing state or local health, sanitary
or safety code specifications which are solely necessary to assure
safe living conditions or any alteration of a structure listed on
the National Register of Historic Places or a state inventory of historic
places.
SWIMMING POOL
A body of water in an artificial container, whether located in ground or above ground, having a depth at any point of more than two feet or a surface area of more than 250 square feet, used or intended to be used for swimming by children and/or adults. (See also §
135-44.)
TEMPORARY PERMIT
A permit authorized by the Zoning Officer for a nonpermanent structure or use, where such structure or use is deemed to be beneficial to the public health or general welfare or necessary to promote the proper development of the Township. (See also §
135-87J.)
TOWNHOUSE
A single-family attached dwelling which is comprised of more
than one floor above basement grade.
UNIFORM CONSTRUCTION CODE (UCC)
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 commonwealth floodplain construction.
For coordination purposes, references to the above are made specifically
to various sections of the IRC and the IBC.
USE
The specific purpose or activity for which land or a building
is designed, arranged, intended or for which it is or may be occupied
or maintained.
A.
USE, ACCESSORYA use subordinate to the principal use of a building on the same lot and serving a purpose customarily incidental to the use of the principal building (see also Appendix D). If no principal use exists on a lot with a lawful accessory
use then such "accessory use" shall be considered a principal use.
B.
USE, PRINCIPALThe primary purpose for which a lot is occupied or utilized (See Appendix D).
VARIANCE
A modification of the provisions of this chapter which the Zoning Hearing Board is permitted to grant when strict enforcement would cause undue hardship owing to circumstances unique to the individual property on which the variance is sought. (See §
135-82C for additional details and criteria to be utilized when a variance is requested.)
VETERINARY HOSPITAL OR CLINIC
An establishment where animals are given medical or surgical
treatment by a veterinarian and their boarding is limited to short-term
care incidental to the treatment.
WAREHOUSE FACILITY
A building or lot used for the storage of goods, materials, equipment or fill, including facilities handling freight for a specific commercial or industrial operation and those facilities available to the general public containing separate storage spaces of varying sizes leased or rented on an individual basis. (See also §
135-36.)
WATER FACILITY
Any waterworks, water supply or water distribution system
or part thereof designed, intended or constructed to provide or distribute
potable water.
A.
WATER DISTRIBUTION FACILITY, OFF-LOTAny approved system in which potable water is supplied from a central water source to a dwelling or other building located off the lot on which such dwelling or building is located.
B.
WATER DISTRIBUTION FACILITY, ON-LOTAny approved system in which potable water is supplied from an individual well to a dwelling or other building located on the same lot as the well.
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM (WECS)
A machine designed for the purpose of converting wind energy
into electrical energy. (Commonly known as "wind turbine" or "windmill").
The term WECS shall be used interchangeably with the terms "wind turbine"
or "windmill," with said terms having the same meaning as a wind energy
conversion system (WECS).
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
WIND TOWER
The supporting structure of a wind turbine on which a rotor
and accessory equipment are mounted.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
WIND TURBINE
A wind energy conversion system that converts wind energy
into electricity through the use of wind turbine generator, and includes
the nacelle, rotor, tower, and pad transformer, if any.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
WIND TURBINE HEIGHT
The distance measured from the surface of the wind tower
foundation to the highest point of the turbine rotor plane.
[Added 9-18-2019 by Ord.
No. 09-18-2019B]
YARD
An open space which lies on the same lot with a building
or structure, unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward.
A.
YARD, FRONTAn open space extending the full width of the lot between the principal building or structure and the street right-of-way line or front lot line, unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward.
B.
YARD, REARAn open space extending the full width of the lot between the principal building and the rear lot line, unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward.
C.
YARD, SIDEAn open space extending from the front yard to the rear yard between the principal building and the side lot line, unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward.
D.
YARD, REQUIREDThe minimum area or open space required by this chapter to be provided between any front, side or rear lot line and a principal or accessory building(s) on the lot. (See Appendix D, District Regulations.)
ZONING HEARING BOARD
The Zoning Hearing Board of Scott Township, Columbia County,
Pennsylvania, appointed by the Township Supervisors.
ZONING MAP
The Official Zoning Map of Scott Township, Columbia County, Pennsylvania, together with all notations, references and amendments which may subsequently be adopted. Said map is made a part of this chapter in §
135-10.
ZONING OFFICER
The administrative officer, person, entity or agency duly
appointed by the Township Supervisors and charged with the duty of
enforcing the provisions of this chapter. Various duties of the Zoning
Officer may be assigned by the Township Supervisors to different officers,
persons, entities or agencies. Notwithstanding the foregoing, at all
times the definition of "Zoning Officer" shall include the Scott Township
Code Enforcement Officer.
ZONING PERMIT
A permit stating that the purpose for which a building or
land is to be used is in conformity with the uses permitted and all
other requirements of this chapter for the district in which it is
to be located.